This 2026 Cincinnati Bengals season has been a roller coaster so far, but the team has had some impressive wins so far and is finally settling into a rhythm. The offense especially is playing incredible right now, between the trio of Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins, what more can fans ask for. Even the defense is falling into a better rhythm (well mostly).
While Burrow, Chase, and Higgins may be the first three names you think of when you think of recent Bengals success, there are others contributing to this season’s winning record. Here’s three players who have been pleasant surprises in 2026.
Samaje Perine
Fans were stunned (at least I was) when Samaje Perine left a few years back, and what’s worse was that he signed with the Chiefs at one point. Perine was always a dependable running back, always securing first down after first down and fighting for more yards within each run. In Week 5, Perine secured a touchdown in the second quarter of the game on a third-and-goal, breaking the tie against the Dolphins.
Chase Brown had a bit of a slow start this season, so we saw Perine in action quite a bit these last few weeks, and he’s been nothing but consistent. Perine also had a rushing touchdown late in Week 7 against the Ravens, giving the Bengals a 21-13 edge. Perine has been all over the field, which has been a surprise but in the best way.
Dohnte Meyers
Coming to a new team (and league) and doing what Dohnte Meyers has done has been nothing short of remarkable. Meyers has been an excellent addition, exactly who Cincinnati has been looking for in WR3 and returner. Playing alongside Chase and Higgins and holding his own is something incredible on its own.
Meyers had a huge run to start Week 5, he had a kickoff return good for 81 yards and a first-and-goal. That run set up a perfect Gesicki touchdown, giving the Bengals the early lead. Meyers also had a great Week 9 performance, catching a pass for 16 yards early in the game on a second-and-six. When Meyers came to the team, fans weren’t sure what to expect. But instead, they’ve found the missing piece of the Bengals’ wide receiver puzzle, and the team would be smart to keep utilizing him.
Barrett Carter
Almost as if Carter knew that all eyes would be on him this season, he’s been playing great these last few weeks. Both him and Demetrius Knight Jr., have had great performances so far, and the linebacker position is in a completely different place this season. The defense all together has been playing (mostly) a lot better than in years past, and Carter’s stops have made all the difference.
Carter also forced a fumble in Week 9, which helped lead to a field goal, giving the Bengals a 24-10 edge. That same game, Carter also got an interception late in the fourth quarter to help the Bengals secure the win, and move to 6-2. While fans may not have known what to expect from him this season, Carter has been exceeding expectations so far.
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