Cincinnati Bengals offensive tackle Amarius Mims is entering his third NFL season after inking a four-year, fully guaranteed contract worth $15.37 million in 2024. Walking into 2026, his leadership is drawing attention during offseason training.

It's been only two months since the Bengals drafted offensive tackle Brian Parker II with their sixth-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. However, the former Duke University player has praised Mims for his leadership. The comments offer a different perspective on a player often discussed for his physicality and on-field potential.

"I obviously wasn't here the first two years he [Mims] was here, but now he seems like a very mature competitor," Parker said, as reported by the Cincinnati Bengals on SI on June 16. "Mims is really pushing himself on the field, and being a great leader for us young guys too, and helping us get around things that maybe he struggled with when he was a rookie."

As found in Parker's quotes, according to Cincinnati Bengals on SI, his assessment is notable because Mims is still one of the younger players on Cincinnati's offensive line. The Bengals drafted him as the 18th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Now, he is entering the third season of his rookie contract.

Mims, who played for the Georgia Bulldogs, earned fame for his potential during his rookie campaign despite dealing with injuries. At 6-foot-8 and more than 350 pounds, Mims possesses the size and athleticism that made him one of the most crucial linemen in his draft class.

After a 57.8 PFF grade in his rookie year, the former first-round pick opened 2025 slowly, posting a 55.1 grade in the first nine weeks while allowing 21 pressures and four sacks. He also had a 5.9% pressure rate, ranking 48th among tackles.

However, Mims found his rhythm in the second half, jumping to a 78.2 PFF grade and lowering his pressure rate to 4.7%. He gave up just 14 pressures and zero sacks over the final eight games.

So, Parker's praise suggests that Mims is earning respect both for his play and how he helps teammates. 

With Parker’s praise for Mims, he is not the only Bengals player expecting big things from the young tackle.

Orlando Brown Jr. Sees Massive Potential in Bengals Tackle Amid Growing Pressure

According to Yahoo Sports_, Bengals left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. also praised Mims that he has the potential to become "the most dynamic right tackle in the league."

As the training camp approaches, the Bengals will hope to build his foundation. However, with expectations come pressure.

PFSN compiled a list of one player from each team who's under the most pressure in 2026. For Cincinnati, it's Mims.

"With an increase in PFN OL Impact Scoring from Year 1 to Year 2, the arrow seems to be pointing up with Amarius Mims," wrote analyst Matt Fitzgerald. "He went from a below-average starter to a slightly above-average one in 2025. At that current rate of ascension, he could prove himself as a top-tier tackle by the end of 2026."

Mims still has plenty to prove entering his third season. If his development matches the expectations of his teammates, the Bengals may have a future star leading their offensive line.

What do you think of Mims playing the role as the leader in Cincinnati? Share your thoughts.

Read more at Cincinnati Bengals Community.

Written by

Evince Das

Edited by

Soheli Tarafdar