Guard Dalton Risner embraces Cincinnati as his home; wishes to remain with the Bengals in 2026.
Veteran offensive guard Dalton Risner made his intentions clear this week, saying he wants to remain with the Cincinnati Bengals rather than enter free agency this spring. Risner, who signed with Cincinnati just before the 2025 season began, told reporters he would prefer to get an extension done with the team before the 2026 league year begins rather than test the open market.
“This is where I want to be,” Risner said. “I want to play for this organization. I want to be a Cincinnati Bengal.”
He reiterated that he would like to avoid free agency, calling the process a “mess” and saying he hopes the Bengals reach out to him quickly about a new deal.
Risner’s comments come after a season in which he emerged as a reliable interior lineman for Cincinnati. He started at right guard for the final seven games of 2025, helping stabilize a unit that had struggled in the run and pass game earlier in the year. His presence contributed to improved protection metrics, and his performance made him a key piece of the offensive line by season’s end.
Risner’s Value to Bengals and Contract Outlook
Risner’s desire to stay in Cincinnati comes as the team prepares for the offseason and faces several free-agency decisions. The 30-year-old veteran played on a one-year, $1.19 million contract in 2025 after signing late in the preseason. That deal allowed him to prove his worth in a starting role, and his production has positioned him as a priority target for retention by the organization.
During his stretch with the Bengals, Risner excelled as a pass protector and his consistency helped Cincinnati reduce pressures allowed on the right side of the line. His performance coincided with the improved offensive line metrics, as the unit allowed fewer sacks relative to past seasons.
Risner’s comments made clear that his preference is to remain in Cincinnati with the players and coaches he worked with in 2025. He spoke positively about the relationship he built with offensive line coach Scott Peters and his line mates, including tackle Amarius Mims and center Ted Karras. He also expressed respect for Bengals leadership and said the continuity of the group was a big part of why he wants to stay.
While Risner acknowledged that the business side of the NFL sometimes complicates decisions, he stressed his desire for a mutually beneficial deal rather than wading into free agency. “I’ve really found a home here,” he said. “I’ve really enjoyed this season.”
After struggling earlier in the season, Cincinnati’s offensive line was one of the more stable units late in 2025, and retaining Risner could help preserve that continuity. His vocal interest in staying gives the Bengals a clear opportunity to re-sign a player who contributed meaningfully in his first year with the team.