The Cincinnati Bengals made a notable addition to their offensive line in the 2025 NFL Draft, selecting Jalen Rivers with the 153rd overall pick. Rivers arrives from the University of Miami, bringing both exceptional versatility and a strong work ethic to the Bengals’ roster. In this article, we'll examine what makes Jalen Rivers a key player to watch and how his presence could impact Cincinnati’s future.

Jalen Rivers: Background and College Journey

Jalen Rivers hails from Jacksonville, Florida, and quickly established himself at Miami as a reliable and flexible offensive lineman. During his college career with the Hurricanes, Rivers demonstrated the rare ability to play all five positions on the offensive line. His standout performances earned him Second-Team All-ACC honors in 2023 and Honorable Mention All-ACC the following year.

Standing at 6’6” and weighing 319 pounds, Rivers pairs size with athleticism. According to the Bengals’ official draft story, offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher praised Rivers’s adaptability, noting that "that versatility will factor for us, it's only a positive." Rivers also won a high school state championship in shot put and competed in basketball and weightlifting, underscoring his athletic background.

Rivers’s Fit With the Cincinnati Bengals

The Bengals prioritized depth and flexibility throughout the 2025 draft. Selecting Rivers in the fifth round was a strategic move aimed at strengthening their offensive line and providing insurance against injuries. As USA TODAY explains in their comprehensive draft grades, Rivers's imposing frame and long arms offer significant upside. However, analysts note that he may need further development in terms of balance and technique, especially at the professional level.

Rivers joins a Bengals team that already includes some familiar faces from his days in Miami, such as Matt Lee and DJ Ivey. This familiarity should help him adjust to the NFL more smoothly. In fact, Rivers himself expressed deep enthusiasm for joining the team, citing the "family atmosphere" in Cincinnati and the welcoming environment set by both players and coaches.

Strengths, Challenges, and Early Outlook

Jalen Rivers's key strength lies in his versatility. He can take reps across the interior line and provide valuable depth at tackle if needed. According to a detailed Bengals draft tracker, Rivers was part of a Miami offensive line that supported the nation's top offense in 2024, both in points and yards per game. His work protected star quarterback Cam Ward, further highlighting Rivers's impact in high-pressure games.

While Rivers brings plenty of raw talent, NFL analysts note that he will need time to refine certain aspects of his game, such as balance and sustained aggression. He is expected to compete for meaningful snaps as a guard, likely battling with Cody Ford for the right guard spot, while providing important depth across the line.

The Road Ahead for Jalen Rivers and the Bengals

As the Bengals continue to reposition themselves among AFC contenders, Jalen Rivers stands to be a valuable asset both now and in the future. His story, built on a foundation of hard work, adaptability, and athletic success, positions him as a player to watch in Cincinnati.

For more insights on his draft selection and early reactions from team insiders, visit the Bengals’ official draft coverage. To follow the rest of Cincinnati’s 2025 draft strategy, see the WLWT Bengals draft tracker.

In summary, Jalen Rivers brings versatility and character to the Bengals’ offensive line. As he transitions to the pro level, fans should keep a close eye on his development and impact in Cincinnati. Stay tuned for updates throughout his rookie season.