Mid-Season Bengals Rookie Report: Grading Shemar Stewart, Demetrius Knight, and the Class of 2023

Every draft class of football players brings its own vibe. Coaches can feel it right away during those initial practices, as newcomers start to mingle with veterans. This year, Bengals coach Zac Taylor highlighted something unique: “Football IQ.” He believes this group shows impressive understanding of the game and strong leadership skills.

Taylor pointed out that many college players change schools often, which can leave gaps in their foundational knowledge. This year’s recruits, however, mostly come from single programs, showcasing a solid grasp of core concepts. With six draft picks ready to prove themselves, it’s likely some will play key roles right away, especially come Week 1 in Cleveland.

Shemar Stewart, Edge (Round 1, Pick 17)

Role: Likely starting as a defensive end.
Stewart has switched things up in practices, showcasing his ability to rush the quarterback effectively. His versatility excites coaches. Defensive coordinator Al Golden praised his unique skills, noting that it’s rare for a player of his size to execute various roles.

Demetrius Knight Jr., LB (Round 2, Pick 49)

Role: Expected to start alongside Logan Wilson.
Knight Jr. made headlines by intercepting a pass after smartly reacting to a play. His coachability and quick adaptations have impressed the team. Even at 25, players see him as a potential leader.

Dylan Fairchild, G (Round 3, Pick 81)

Role: Starting left guard.
Fairchild has shown a tough attitude, excelling in one-on-one drills. Offensive line coach Scott Peters noted his strong physical traits and ability to adjust mentally. While Fairchild has faced challenges typical for rookies, he’s in the starting mix.

Barrett Carter, LB (Round 4, Pick 119)

Role: Reserve linebacker and special teams player.
Carter is quickly earning respect for his playmaking ability and adaptability. Taylor mentioned that there are open roles in the linebacker core, making every practice crucial for Carter’s development.

Jalen Rivers, OL (Round 5, Pick 153)

Role: Still finding his place, playing left and right tackle.
Rivers has taken on various responsibilities but has room for improvement in his technique. Coach Taylor acknowledges his mental grasp of the game, which bodes well for his future.

Tahj Brooks, RB (Round 6, Pick 193)

Role: Backup running back.
Brooks has impressed with his quick footwork and elusiveness. His vision on the field highlights why he was the leading rusher at Texas Tech. He needs to further prove himself, especially in pass protection.

Honorable Mentions:

Bralyn Lux, CB: A standout among undrafted players, Lux is drawing comparisons to former Bengal Mike Hilton for his impactful play.
Howard Cross, DT: With experience at Notre Dame, Cross is likely to make a strong case for himself during preseason games.

In today’s NFL, the ability to learn quickly and adapt is vital. With every practice, these rookies are stepping up, making their mark, and channeling the support of their coaches to pave their path in the league. As Taylor noted, this class’s intelligence and leadership could lead to significant contributions right away.

For more on the Bengals and their draft class insights, check out ESPN’s coverage on NFL rookies.

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