The Cincinnati Bengals have been blessed with some truly great offensive linemen throughout their history. While the franchise has often been defined by explosive offenses, tough defenses, and memorable playoff moments, the big men in the trenches have been the foundation. The most iconic, of course, is Anthony Muñoz, one of the greatest to ever play the game. But beyond Muñoz, the Bengals’ history includes several linemen who helped shape the identity of the team, protecting quarterbacks, opening holes for elite running backs, and bringing toughness that defined Bengals football.

In this list, we rank the 10 greatest offensive linemen in Bengals history. Each player’s impact, longevity, and legacy were considered, and every one of them made an undeniable mark on the franchise.

10. Rich Braham

Rich Braham’s story is one of perseverance. Drafted in the third round by the Cardinals, he never played a down for them. Instead, he landed in Cincinnati, where he became a fan favorite and a model of consistency.

• Played 13 seasons for the Bengals.

• Appeared in 146 games with 142 starts, transitioning from guard to center in 1999.

• Blocked for stars like Corey Dillon, Rudi Johnson, Boomer Esiason, Jeff Blake, and Carson Palmer.

Known for his toughness, Braham battled through multiple surgeries, sprains, and even a herniated neck disc. His career ended after a serious knee fracture in 2006, but his grit and reliability left a lasting legacy.

Rich Braham Tribute

9. Blair Bush

Drafted in the first round of the 1978 NFL Draft, Blair Bush quickly established himself as a cornerstone of the Bengals’ line. For four years, he helped protect quarterback Ken Anderson and set the tone for a balanced offense.

The Bengals parted ways with Bush in 1982, replacing him with college legend Dave Rimington—a move that never panned out as hoped. While Bush’s career in Cincinnati wasn’t long, his steadiness during a crucial era of Bengals football cannot be overlooked.

Blair Bush: Football Center

8. Bruce Reimers

Bruce Reimers might have been higher on this list if not for injuries that derailed his career.

• Played both guard and tackle during his early years.

• Key member of the 1988 offensive line, widely considered the best in team history.

• Injuries in 1987, 1989, and 1990 cut short his effectiveness.

Despite the setbacks, Reimers was a fighter. His return in 1988 to play all 16 games showed his resilience. He eventually finished his career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but his prime years came in stripes.

Iowan remembers playing on Bengals’ last Super Bowl team

7. Joe Walter

A seventh-round pick who turned into a cornerstone, Joe Walter replaced Brian Blados at right tackle and never looked back.

From 1987 to 1996, Walter locked down the right side of the line, forming a dynamic tackle duo with Anthony Muñoz for six seasons. His story is a reminder that greatness can come from unexpected draft slots.

Joe Walters would like to ask you something…

6. Dave Lapham

Before he became a beloved Bengals broadcaster, Dave Lapham was one of the franchise’s most dependable linemen.

His versatility and consistency made him invaluable. Lapham was respected by teammates and coaches alike for his professionalism, work ethic, and reliability. His ability to play multiple positions and his long-term impact have cemented his status as a Bengals legend.

The 1981 FREEZER BOWL | The COLDEST Game in NFL History

5. Bruce Kozerski

Known for his intelligence and versatility, Bruce Kozerski was a stabilizing force on the Bengals’ line.

• Played multiple positions, showcasing his football IQ.

• Protected quarterbacks and opened holes for running backs with equal skill.

• Admired by both teammates and fans for his professionalism.

Kozerski’s ability to adapt and thrive at different spots along the line made him one of the most dependable Bengals linemen of his era.

Bruce Kozerski Super Bowl Update

4. Max Montoya

One of the greatest guards in Bengals history, Max Montoya was the definition of reliability.

He consistently excelled in both run blocking and pass protection, and his presence was crucial in the Bengals’ two Super Bowl runs during the 1980s. Montoya’s consistency and leadership helped set the standard for future Bengals linemen.

REPORTER INTERVIEWS HER DAD

3. Andrew Whitworth

Andrew Whitworth was the anchor of Cincinnati’s line during the 2000s, bringing both toughness and leadership.

• Known for his size, strength, and elite technique.

• Protected quarterbacks through some turbulent Bengals years.

• Went on to win a Super Bowl with the LA Rams—ironically against Cincinnati.

Whitworth’s impact was felt far beyond the field. He was a locker room leader and one of the most respected players in the NFL. His Hall of Fame case is still building.

Andrew Whitworth on Writing a Letter to Bengals Owner Mike Brown

2. Willie Anderson

One of the most dominant right tackles in NFL history, Willie Anderson deserves far more recognition than he has received.

• Four-time Pro Bowler.

• Known for his ability to shut down the league’s best pass rushers.

• A consistent force on the line during some lean Bengals years.

Anderson has been a long-overlooked Hall of Fame candidate. His steadiness, power, and leadership made him one of the greatest linemen ever to wear Bengals stripes.

Willie Anderson Ring of Honor Suit Fitting

1. Anthony Muñoz

The gold standard.

• 11 Pro Bowls and 11 All-Pro selections.

• NFL Offensive Lineman of the Year three times.

• Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1998.

Muñoz started 184 of 185 games in his 13-year career, all with the Bengals. He is widely regarded as the greatest left tackle in NFL history, and his dominance defined an era of Bengals football.

Conclusion

The Cincinnati Bengals’ history is filled with stars, but none of their great quarterbacks, running backs, or wide receivers would have thrived without these offensive linemen paving the way. From Anthony Muñoz, the franchise’s ultimate legend, to underrated warriors like Rich Braham and Joe Walter, these players defined toughness, resilience, and excellence.

Their legacy reminds us that championships are built in the trenches. While the Bengals continue to search for their first Super Bowl title, the foundation laid by these linemen has shaped the identity of the team for generations. Their contributions will never be forgotten.