Versatility is a good thing.
The Cincinnati Bengals love versatile offensive linemen. Cody Ford’s two-year contract extension was likely due to his ability to play four positions on the offensive line on short notice, so it is no shock to see them hosting a versatile prospect ahead of the NFL Draft.
Miami Hurricanes guard/tackle Jalen Rivers visited with the Bengals on Monday, per Adam Schefter.
Rivers was a top recruit for Miami in 2020, when he was originally brought in to play tackle, but played the 2021 and 2022 seasons at left guard. In 2023, he moved to left tackle to start his first season as an offensive tackle.
His versatility was highlighted again in 2024 when he played both guard and tackle while missing five games due to injury. Rivers played 295 snaps at left tackle and 215 at left guard.
Through those seven games, Rivers was charged with only one sack, seven total pressures and just three penalties. Rivers was able to play well at both spots, something the Bengals will certainly value when evaluating him as a prospect.
Rivers credited his offensive line coach when asked about his unconventional role last season.
“I give that credit to [Miami associate head coach/offensive line coach Alex] Mirabal. He always preaches, always says, ‘You’re not an offensive tackle, or center, or guard. You’re an offensive lineman,’” Rivers said. “So, I pride myself going through this process as an offensive lineman. I can go from left tackle to the right side to center even, if you put me in. I feel like it adds value, if anything.”
He sounds like he would fit well in the Bengals’ offensive line room.