Dalton Risner Praises Joe Burrow's Role in New Bengals Deal

Offensive lineman credits quarterback's push to keep him in Cincinnati.

Mar. 2, 2026 at 1:55pm

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The Cincinnati Bengals have re-signed right guard Dalton Risner to a new one-year deal, and Risner says the deal wouldn't have happened without the efforts of his teammate, quarterback Joe Burrow. Risner cited Burrow's advocacy and the support of other Bengals coaches and staff as key factors in getting the contract finalized.

Why it matters

Keeping Risner on the offensive line is seen as crucial for protecting Burrow, the Bengals' star quarterback, in the 2026 season. Risner's comments highlight the strong relationship between the players and the organization's commitment to building a cohesive team around Burrow.

The details

Risner joined the Bengals last August and made 11 starts in his first year with the team, often playing alongside Burrow. Risner said Burrow "pushed for me this whole offseason" and that he "had so many people" within the Bengals organization advocating for him to stay, including offensive line coach Amarius Mims and head coach Zac Taylor.

  • Risner signed a new one-year deal with the Bengals on March 2, 2026.

The players

Dalton Risner

A right guard who joined the Cincinnati Bengals in 2025 and started 11 games in his first season with the team.

Joe Burrow

The starting quarterback for the Cincinnati Bengals, known for his strong relationship with his offensive linemen.

Amarius Mims

The offensive line coach for the Cincinnati Bengals.

Zac Taylor

The head coach of the Cincinnati Bengals.

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What they’re saying

“This deal wouldn't have been done without guys like Joe Burrow. Joe Burrow pushed for me this whole offseason. He checked in. He wanted me there. Amarius Mims was outspoken. I had so many people. My offensive line coach. Zac Taylor. I just felt like I had so many people that pulled for me that I don't think this would have gotten done without them.”

— Dalton Risner, Cincinnati Bengals right guard

What’s next

With the offensive line largely intact, the focus will now shift to how the Bengals' offense performs in the 2026 season with Burrow leading the way.

The takeaway

Dalton Risner's comments highlight the strong team culture and player-coach relationships that the Bengals have built around their star quarterback Joe Burrow. Keeping the offensive line together is seen as crucial for Burrow's success and the team's overall competitiveness.