Ironically, in light of recent discussions around the Bengals’ offensive line, the franchise has historically given significant emphasis to the position. The first player ever drafted by the team was Bob Johnson, a center. Interestingly, Johnson was also the only player in the team’s history to have his jersey number retired, which highlights that the center position was considered to be the focal point of the offensive line in earlier times, even if the modern league has neglected it.
Following Bob Johnson’s tenure with the Bengals, offensive tackle Anthony Munoz was the only player for the Bengals to earn a place in the Hall of Fame. Munoz is widely considered the greatest offensive tackle in the game’s history and played through 1992. Remarkably, only ten years after his retirement, the team found another legendary offensive tackle.
Currently, an offensive tackle for the Bengals is under consideration for the Hall of Fame, and fans are eagerly awaiting the upcoming announcement this week.
Cincinnati was fortunate to draft Willie Anderson from Auburn in 1996, following the successful career of Anthony Munoz. After an excellent start to his career, Anderson went on to become first-team All-Pro from 2003 to 2006 and is regarded as the best offensive lineman in football during that period. Weighing 340 pounds and standing 6’5”, Anderson was a mammoth of a man, paving the way for running backs like Corey Dillon and Rudi Johnson during his time in Cincinnati.
Besides his remarkable talent in the trenches, Anderson was best known for his loyalty to the team throughout his career. After Corey Dillon threw his shoulder pads into the stands following the final game of the season and disrespected his teammates, Anderson voiced his opinion both to the press and ownership, stating that the team did not want someone who disrespected his teammates in that manner.
Despite Dillon’s incredible talent, Anderson did not want to bring him back to the team after the incident with his shoulder pads, stating, “They definitely can’t bring him back, because he would destroy us next year. The cancer would take effect.”
It’s noteworthy that Anderson and Dillon have since reconciled, and Anderson is now an advocate for Dillon’s induction into the Hall of Fame. Nevertheless, Anderson’s loyalty to the team and his willingness to prioritize team camaraderie over an individual’s success deserves commendation. Since being selected by the Bengals as the 10th overall pick in 1996, Anderson has embodied the concept of being a professional athlete in Cincinnati and has been an excellent role model on and off the field.
Despite being less vocal than other positions, offensive linemen such as Anderson play a crucial role in the success of their team. Anderson had a significant impact on the people of Cincinnati and has been a fan favorite for his contributions on and off the field. He was a key component in making one of his hometown fans a devotee of the Bengals and inspired him to wear number 71 throughout his college career. Anderson’s gratitude towards the fans of Cincinnati for keeping his candidacy alive throughout his 11-years of eligibility is a testament to his appreciation of their unwavering support all these years.
Currently, Anderson runs his youth offensive line academy in Atlanta, Georgia, and was informed of his Hall of Fame candidacy when talking to a young player. While he may not be regarded as one of the greats, his ten-year-long contribution to Cincinnati and his massive impact both on and off the field has left a lasting impression on the fans.
