Bengals now have two defensive linemen named to all-decade teams

The Cincinnati Bengals now have two veteran defensive linemen that have been named to all-decade teams in Carlos Dunlap and Geno Atkins. 

Earlier this offseason, Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle Geno Atkins was selected to be on the NFL’s prestigious all-decade team. The dominant veteran certainly deserved such an honor, as he racked up 75.5 sacks, 171 quarterback hits, and 383 tackles over the first 10 years of his career.

Now, another defensive lineman is earning all-decade considerations. This time, Carlos Dunlap is seeing his work recognized. The outstanding defensive end came in at #89 on Pro Football Focus’ all-decade team.

Much like Atkins, Dunlap is definitely worthy of such an honor. The former Florida standout has accounted for 81.5 sacks, 472 tackles, and 223 quarterback hits over the course of his illustrious career.

Although both are in their 30’s, each of them are still giving opposing offensive line coaches headaches. According to PFF, Atkins earned a solid grade of 76.2 in 2019, while Dunlap somehow managed to secure the second-highest grade of his career, 89.7.

The two appear primed to have yet another season of dominating the trenches for Cincinnati as well. Atkins has an elite running mate in the recently acquired D.J. Reader, while Dunlap has young guns, Sam Hubbard and Carl Lawson, to take some attention off him.

Defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo will certainly be relying on the centerpieces of his defensive line as he attempts to break in a plethora of new players brought in via free agency and the draft. The pair will be leaned upon for leadership as the fresh faces get acclimated to the new system.

The duo has made the Bengals defensive line one of the biggest strengths of the team over the past decade. As the Bengals enter a new era of football, they will look to keep up their dominance and, ultimately, lead the charge to end the playoff drought.