The Cincinnati Bengals’ first offensive selection during the 2026 NFL Draft, Connor Lew, was inactive vs. the Detroit Lions. After tearing his left ACL during October of 2025, the Bengals are being cautious in easing him back into full contact on a regular basis. He has been getting some first- and second-team action in camp, but the next step will be to see if he plays in one of the final two preseason games. Colbie Young was also a fourth-round draft selection for the Bengals. He has made quite the impression so far during camp. That continued with a couple of catches versus Detroit. He finished the game with two receptions for 28 yards. He could have had a third catch, but it was knocked away on a contested catch opportunity. Young could push Andrei Iosivas for snaps at the third receiver position throughout the season. His size, strength in his hands, and ability to generally win those contested catch situations are all standout traits. Brian Parker II was a sixth-round draft selection for the Bengals this year. He played mostly right tackle during his time at Duke. For the Bengals, he has moved almost exclusively to the interior so far in camp. The majority of his snaps against the Lions came at left guard, with a handful at center late in the game. I thought Parker looked really good, especially in pass protection. He has such a calm presence for a young lineman. He doesn’t panic, and he trusts his technique. He also has the athleticism to recover when it is needed.
Brian Parker played mostly left guard last night, with some late playing time at center. It wouldn’t surprise me if he gets snaps at a couple other spots this preseason. pic.twitter.com/2kPf4auhLZ — Bengals & Brews (@BengalsBrews) August 14, 2026
Jack Endries showed up in the first preseason game after having a rather quiet camp beforehand. He finished the game with three catches for 25 yards. He also caught the Bengals’ lone touchdown of the game from Joe Flacco. Endries has been working on his blocking, both at Texas and now with the Bengals. While there is still work to be done, he has the chance to become a solid all-around tight end for this team.
Jack Endries with the strong debut. Tight End continues to be one of the more interesting roster battles. I am finding a way to keep Endries in any scenario. pic.twitter.com/aH4zxYUZBR — Bengals & Brews (@BengalsBrews) August 16, 2026
I will toss in one more rookie performance, this one coming from an undrafted free agent. While only playing in nine snaps during the first preseason game, Corey Robinson II made the most of it. He looked athletic and played through the whistle. For an offensive lineman, that is exactly what you want to see out there. Robinson is likely a practice squad candidate to start the season, but certainly a player who may stick around if he continues to develop.
Corey Robinson II looked good in limited snaps on Thursday against the Lions. pic.twitter.com/yqgjkVGUXz — Bengals & Brews (@BengalsBrews) August 16, 2026