Ranking the Bengals Ring of Honor nominees based on legacy

6. Isaac Curtis

Bengals WR from 1973-1984

Isaac Curtis is one of the best wide receivers in franchise history, and his numbers don’t lie whatsoever. Curtis was a first-round selection by the good guys and turned his Cincinnati tenure into four Pro Bowls.

As a rookie, Curtis has 18.7 yards per 45 receptions, which is an incredible stat. He holds the team record for yards per reception, which was 17.07. He is third in receiving yards and fourth in touchdowns.

Curtis doesn’t get enough recognition for how good he was because he played in mostly the 70s, but he was an effective and athletic wideout for the era he played in. He deserved the nomination and was among the best offensive and skilled players in the team’s history.

5. Lemar Parrish

Bengals CB from 1970-1977

Lemar Parrish was the ultimate athlete and one of the best special teams in franchise history, if not the best. Parrish was a six-time Pro-Bowler out of his seven seasons with the Bengals, and that is tied for fourth most in franchise history.

He is also tied for most punt return touchdowns. Parrish was the ultimate returner. When one talks about his skills in that position, they should include his name with the best. He also holds the team record for punt return yards average.

Parrish was not just a kick and punt returner, however. He is ranked fifth in career interceptions for the team with 25 total. He was as effective as they come and just a true athlete. If he played in today’s era of football, everybody would know his name.

Because he spent all of his prime years in the 70s a lot like Curtis, I feel he doesn’t get the true recognition he rightfully deserves.