The Cincinnati Bengals kicked off their preseason strong, snatching a tight 16-14 win over the Detroit Lions, and it looks like a whole new crew of young guns is already making noise. While the whole 2026 rookie class put on a decent show, one guy absolutely exploded onto the scene in a way that has everyone talking: seventh-round tight end Jack Endries. This dude not only scored his first NFL touchdown, he also snagged a game-high-tying three passes for 25 yards and, get this, earned a game-high 91.4 Pro Football Focus grade. Yeah, a seventh-rounder with that kind of impact right out of the gate? Wild.
Endries is Balling Out Early
You always hope your late-round picks can make a roster, but Endries is already doing more than just showing potential. Scoring a touchdown and leading the team in catches, all while posting a PFF grade that’s nearly perfect for his position, is just insane for a rookie in his first preseason game. It really makes you wonder what kind of hidden gem the Bengals just unearthed. He’s making game-changing plays and proving he’s way more than just a training camp body.
Other Rookies Stepping Up Too
While Endries stole the show, he wasn’t the only rookie making plays. Second-round edge rusher Cashius Howell might not have been as dominant as he was in camp, but he still bagged a QB hurry and recovered a fumble in that two-point win. Every play counts in a game that tight, right? Then there’s Landon Robinson, another seventh-round defensive tackle, who went out and picked up his first NFL sack plus another QB hit. And don’t sleep on fourth-round wide receiver Colbie Young, who’s been showing out in camp and pulled in two passes for 28 yards against Detroit.
It’s still super early in the preseason, but this rookie class is already flashing some serious potential. Endries’ performance, especially, is a massive storyline. Which one of these new guys has you most hyped after seeing them in action?
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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