Summary

Dalton Risner entered the NFL as a highly decorated collegiate lineman — a four‑year starter at Kansas State, earning First‑Team All‑Big 12 honors multiple times and being named a First‑Team All‑American in 2018. Kansas State University Athletics He brought to the league a strong work ethic, high character, and versatility across the interior of the offensive line.

Since being drafted in 2019 NFL Draft, Round 2, (pick 41), Risner quickly became a full‑time starter with the Broncos and demonstrated durability, starting every game his first two seasons. Over time, though, his performance has shown a divergence between pass‑blocking strength and run‑blocking struggles.

In 2025 he joined the Bengals to bring veteran interior presence and experience to their offensive line.

Strengths

• Pass Protection Skillset: Risner has established himself as a reliable pass‑protector. For example, his 2024 season pass‑blocking grade ranked 13th among all NFL guards. PFF He also reportedly allowed zero sacks over the last two regular seasons at one point. Cincy Jungle

• Versatility & Positional Flexibility: In college and early AFC career, Risner displayed ability to play multiple positions on the line, which gives teams flexibility with his use. Bleacher Report

• Durability & Reliability (early career): Started all 16 games as a rookie and was recognized with PFWA All‑Rookie Team honors.

• Character & Work Ethic: Respected for his commitment, toughness and finishing blocks. Pre‑draft reports noted he “plays through the whistle” and has strong hands and finish‑through ability. Bleacher Report

Weaknesess

• Run‑Blocking Inconsistency: While his pass‑blocking has been strong, his run‑blocking grades have lagged. In 2024 he ranked 96th out of 136 guards in run‑block grade. The Viking Age

• Athletic Ceiling / Foot‑Speed Limits for Elite Edge Matchups: Some scouting reports at draft time noted that while technically sound and strong, his foot speed and agility could limit him when asked to handle very quick defensive linemen or move in space. Bleacher Report

• Positional Identity & Mastery: Pre‑draft critiques pointed to him being a “jack of all trades, master of none” due to his moving around the line; sometimes he lacked elite dominance at one fixed spot. Bleacher Report

• Recent Production Decline & Market Perception: Later in his career, his market value and starting role shifted, in part because of the run‑blocking issues and some injury concerns. WLWT

Fit & Outlook

Dalton Risner projects as a solid veteran interior lineman with a strong floor — particularly in pass‑protection roles. His experience and technical competence give teams confidence he can start or play significant snaps at guard.

However, unless he can meaningfully improve his run‑blocking consistency and show more dominance in that phase, his ceiling may be that of a dependable starter rather than an elite interior lineman. For teams that focus more heavily on pass protection (e.g., protecting a high‑value QB), he offers a very appealing profile.

His move to Cincinnati suggests he may be tasked with stabilizing or upgrading their guard positions in the short term. How he adapts to new system demands and sustains performance will determine his long‑term value.