The Cincinnati Bengals have been generating serious buzz around their latest draft pick—and for good reason. When your rookie is being compared to one of the NFL's most relentless pass rushers, you know you've got something special.

Enter Cashius Howell, the Bengals' second-round pick who's already drawing Maxx Crosby comparisons. But this isn't just fan hype; it's coming from NFL insiders. According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, an anonymous AFC scout had this to say: "He doesn't have the elite bend that some of the other rushers have, but he is absolutely relentless and will play a long time in the NFL as a result." That relentless motor? It's the same trait that's made Maxx Crosby a household name.

Howell's resume backs up the praise. The SEC Defensive Player of the Year racked up 11.5 sacks in just 13 games, proving that production trumps measurables. The Bengals were so impressed they were reportedly considering him in the first round—so landing him in the second feels like a steal.

Of course, the Bengals aren't getting ahead of themselves. They're focused on building a deep pass-rush rotation that already includes Boye Mafe, Shemar Stewart, and Myles Murphy. If Howell develops into even half the player Crosby is, Cincinnati's defense could be terrifying for years to come.

For now, the comparisons are flattering—but the work is just beginning. And if Howell's motor is as advertised, Bengals fans have plenty to be excited about.