The Cincinnati Bengals finally have something Joe Burrow has rarely enjoyed in his NFL career: continuity across the offensive line. That does not mean they should stop looking for help. Cincinnati is set to bring back Orlando Brown Jr., Dylan Fairchild, Ted Karras, Dalton Risner, and Amarius Mims as its starting five. The organization has openly praised the group’s chemistry, and Burrow has emphasized the value of returning the same unit. That stability matters after years of constant change in front of the franchise quarterback.
MORE:Ranking all 16 AFC teams heading into 2026 NFL training camp
Dec 28, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) leaves the field after a game against the Arizona Cardinals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
But continuity and depth are not the same thing. And that, friends, is why the Bengals should bring Kevin Zeitler home. Zeitler was Cincinnati’s first-round pick in 2012 and spent five seasons with the franchise before building one of the league’s longest, steadiest careers at guard. He has appeared in more than 200 NFL games and remains unsigned after playing for Tennessee last season.
This would not have to be a dramatic change to the starting lineup. Zeitler could compete, provide experienced insurance at both guard spots, and give Cincinnati a proven option if an injury hits during camp or the regular season. For a team with legitimate Super Bowl expectations, that kind of protection is worth more than another developmental roster spot.
Aug 24, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; Cincinnati Bengals guard Kevin Zeitler (68) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
The Bengals have invested heavily in Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins. Their offense is designed to win through the passing game. None of that matters if one injury inside forces the line into another midseason scramble. Zeitler already knows Cincinnati. The organization knows what kind of professional it would be getting. The price should also be reasonable.
The Bengals do not need to replace their offensive line. They need to protect it from becoming a weakness again. Bringing back Zeitler would be boring. It may also be the smartest remaining move Cincinnati can make for Burrow.
—Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead—