What draft experts said about new Bengals OL Jalen Rivers

The Cincinnati Bengals selected their second of two offensive linemen across six picks in the 2025 NFL draft with fifth-rounder Jalen Rivers.

A versatile prospect who can come in and provide depth at multiple positions right away, Rivers received generally favorable reviews in the grades department from outsiders at the time of the pick.

As for prominent NFL draft experts, here’s what they wrote about Rivers before the draft itself.

“When he stays patient in pass pro, Rivers skillfully uses his length to lock out, shuffle and control his man with his power base, although he can get crossed up when caught upright or lunging. He flashes dominance in the run game, and that should continue if he can clean up some technical issues. Overall, Rivers is a large-bodied athlete with the long arms, play strength and functional movements to execute his blocking assignment. His overaggressive tendencies lead to balance issues, however, which must be addressed by pro coaching. He has NFL starting potential and fits best at guard.”

“A burly offensive lineman with natural anchor and above-average length, Rivers is best-suited for short spaces, where his athletic limitations can be mitigated. He could get a shot at right tackle but slow feet will put him in harm’s way against NFL edge rushers. He’s sturdy at the point against bull-rushers and space-eaters. He works with stiff hips and below-average base footwork, which often short-circuit attempts to leverage and clear the gaps. He’s a clunky mover who will be tied to scheme, but his mass and length increase his likelihood of finding starting reps on the interior, provided he can stay healthy.”

“Concerns remain about his overall athleticism if he lives at tackle, but become less of a concern should a team draft him to play guard. Profile in space also remains a work in progress with such minimal snaps at left tackle and as a puller. With such a powerful frame, I’d like to see Rivers initiate his legs more often in the ground game. His lower half will stop at times when met with contact, instead of continuing to churn past the stalemate.

Overall, Rivers is a versatile prospect who projects as a potential swing tackle or sixth offensive lineman for a roster.”

“Overall, Rivers is a hulking, imposing presence with good play strength, solid athletic ability and refined use of hands to weaponize his considerable wingspan. If his injury history checks out he will be able to compete for a starting role right away at guard in a downhill run scheme with the ability to play tackle in a pinch.”

“Rivers is an enticing, high-floor player on the interior. He’s a gap and inside zone fit as a run blocker, and his lack of lateral fluidity projects best to playing with bumpers around him as a guard in the NFL.

He’s a viable starter early, but his athletic profile limits his ceiling, and the injury risks must be guarded against by his next team.”

This article originally appeared on Bengals Wire: 2025 NFL draft: What experts said about new Bengals OL Jalen Rivers

What draft experts said about new Bengals OL Jalen Rivers

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