Amarius Mims Set for Big Leap in 2026

Career Trajectory

Mims entered his second year as Cincinnati’s starting right tackle and showed clear improvement in 2025. He played more snaps in his rookie season than he did in college, finishing with 835 snaps. His pass‑block grade rose from 60.8 to 66.6, while his run‑block grade improved from 52.6 to 64.8. The latter part of the season saw him post an 81.0 overall PFF rating, allowing zero sacks and just one quarterback hit.

Contract Details

Mims is on the third season of his rookie pact after the Bengals selected him 17th overall in the 2024 draft. He signed a four‑year, $15.3 million deal with a fifth‑year option that could keep him in Cincinnati until 2029. If the option is exercised, the next free‑agency period for Mims would be in 2029. The contract structure reflects the team’s confidence in his development.

College Roots

Out of Cochran, Georgia, Mims was a five‑star recruit and chose to play for the Bulldogs. Health limited him to 803 snaps across his college career, but his flashesof dominance caught the Bengals’ eye. The top‑20 pick represented a calculated risk that has already begun to pay off. His size, athleticism and football IQ were evident even during his limited college exposure.

2025 Season Highlights

In weeks 12 through 18, Mims earned an 81.0 Pro Football Focus grade, the highest mark of his young career. During that stretch he registered zero sacks, one quarterback hit and ten hurries on the quarterback. The film showed him locking down passing lanes and contributing in the run game as well. If he sustains that level of play for a full year, Mims could rank among the league’s premier right tackles.

2026 Outlook

Mims will return alongside the same four offensive linemen and the offensive line coach who guided his growth in 2025. Veteran Dalton Risner is back at right guard, providing an added layer of experience next to Mims. Analysts see the blend of talent and continuity as a recipe for further progress. With his skill set and the stable front office, a Pro Bowl or All‑Pro nod is within reach.

Early Life Snapshot

Mims’ background helps explain his rapid rise to the NFL.

• Hometown: Cochran, Georgia
• 5‑star recruit who signed with the University of Georgia