Cincinnati Bengals Ring of Honor 2026 Inductees Announced

The Cincinnati Bengals revealed on July 22 that the 2026 Ring of Honor class will be unveiled later this summer, confirming that exactly two former players will be honored this year. This announcement comes as the franchise prepares for a shift in its induction schedule: starting in 2027, only one new member will be added annually, making 2026 the final year to celebrate multiple inductees. The news also highlights a handful of standout candidates, several of whom are appearing on the ballot for the first time.

Who Made the 2026 Ballot?

• Geno Atkins
• Jim Breech
• James Brooks
• Cris Collinsworth
• Carlos Dunlap
• David Fulcher
• A.J. Green
• Leon Hall
• Max Montoya
• Bob Trumpy
• Andrew Whitworth
• Reggie Williams

Among these nominees, five—Atkins, Dunlap, Green, Hall and Whitworth—are first‑time ballot selections, signaling fresh momentum for the program. The list reflects a blend of defensive stalwarts and offensive icons who each left measurable marks during their playing days.

History of Bengals Ring of Honor

Since the program’s inception in 2021, the Bengals have celebrated 17 individuals across five classes. The 2021 inductees were Ken Anderson, Paul Brown, Anthony Munoz and Ken Riley, followed by Willie Anderson and Isaac Curtis in 2022. Boomer Esiason and Chad Johnson joined in 2023, while Corey Dillon and Tim Krumrie were honored in 2024. Most recently, Dave Lapham and Lemar Parrish received the distinction in 2025.

Lemar Parrish, a cornerback, stands out for his defensive impact: 35 turnovers (25 interceptions, 10 fumble recoveries) in 105 games, with four of those interceptions returning for touchdowns. His induction capped a career that still ranks among the franchise’s top ball‑handlers.

Future of the Ring of Honor

Changes announced in May reshape the program’s trajectory. Beginning in 2027, the Bengals will limit inductions to a single honoree each year, moving away from the multi‑player classes that have defined the early years of the Ring of Honor. As a result, 2026 stands as the last opportunity to recognize more than one individual in a single ceremony.

The upcoming reveal on July 22 will provide fans with a clear look at who will join the pantheon, while the league prepares for a new era of selective enshrinement. Follow the announcement for a deeper dive into each candidate’s legacy and what their induction means for Cincinnati’s football heritage.