The hype train around Bengals rookie Cashius Howell is picking up serious speed—and it's getting harder and harder to ignore. Cincinnati's front office was so high on the pass rusher that they've essentially admitted a first-round grade was in play before he ultimately fell to them in the second round. That kind of internal belief doesn't come around often, and the buzz is only growing louder.
Sure, the critics have had their say. Howell's short arm measurements have been picked apart by draft analysts, but national insiders have fired back with a compelling comparison: Maxx Crosby. If you're going to be compared to one of the NFL's most relentless edge rushers, you're doing something right. And the tape backs it up. Last season, Howell earned SEC Defensive Player of the Year honors after racking up 11.5 sacks and 14 tackles for loss—numbers that scream "pro-ready."
Texas A&M defensive line coach Tony Jerod-Eddie recently explained to Bengals.com why Howell's game translates so well to the next level. "His game and his style of play translates great to the NFL level," Jerod-Eddie said. "We ran a pro-style defense, so he'll be ready to do whatever is asked. He's serious about his craft. He sits in the meetings, he takes tremendous notes. There's a switch he flips and he becomes highly competitive. Ultra-competitive. He'll tell you about it a little, too, which I love." That kind of praise from a position coach carries weight.
Howell won't have to wait long to prove himself. Defensive coordinator Al Golden already has hybrid roles mapped out for him across multiple formations, meaning Howell will be asked to make an immediate impact. And the Bengals need that pass-rushing juice. With Shemar Stewart and Myles Murphy still developing, and big free-agent addition Boye Mafe settling in, every snap of pressure matters.
Given his meteoric rise through college football and the glowing reviews from those who know him best, it wouldn't be a surprise if Howell keeps climbing—and quickly. For Bengals fans and gear enthusiasts alike, this is a rookie worth watching closely. His name might just become a staple on the back of a jersey soon.