The Cincinnati Bengals moved to 2-0 after another masterful defensive performance, defeating the Houston Texans 20-6 on the road. Once again, the DL that comes in waves was the star, limiting the Texans’ running backs to 60 total rushing yards. The Bengals also applied consistent pressure, recording four sacks of C.J. Stroud, and he never really got into a rhythm since the rushing attack was so stagnant. Even though rookie Cashius Howell didn’t register a sack, he was relentless for the second week in a row in applying pressure on opposing quarterbacks. His first-step quickness is impressive off the line of scrimmage, and defensive coordinator Al Golden has done a good job in keeping Howell and other rushers rested. Let’s examine the 41st overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Cashius Howell Continues to Impress for the Bengals
Home Sweet Home
In the NFL, who drafts you is just as important to your success as the talent you possess. Cincinnati was desperate at defensive end and needed to swing big at this position in this year’s draft. They did just that with their second-round selection of Howell. Defensive line coach Jerry Montgomery has a strong track record of developing solid players, and Howell is off to a great start, fitting into Golden’s defense like a glove.
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Spin Cycle
Howell has proven he has plenty of strength with his bull rush, but his spin move has been his calling card and is giving opposing offensive linemen fits. This will open up other ways to win as the season progresses. This was evident when he essentially ended the game against Houston by putting a nice dip move on OT Aireontae Ersery, allowing teammate Ced Johnson to sack Stroud.
Line After Line
In hockey, line changes keep players fresh and at their best in the biggest moments. The Bengals are using a similar tactic by consistently rotating their defensive linemen throughout the game, allowing them to be unleashed in the fourth quarter. Howell has benefited greatly from this and can be used as a closer to get that critical stop when the game’s on the line. He is just getting started in his young career, but it already appears he’s a player you can count on in crunch time. Opposing offenses better be prepared because he’s inevitable and the clock is ticking.
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The Last Word
The Last Word on Howell is that he’s added much-needed juice to this Bengals defense and, thus far, has improved each week. His speed, rush repertoire, and power are imposing, and he has the chance to blossom into something special at a position the orange and black badly need to succeed if they want to make a deep postseason run this season.
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Main Photo: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images
Disclaimer : This story is auto aggregated by a computer programme and has not been created or edited by DOWNTHENEWS. Publisher: Sports.yahoo.com
