The Cincinnati Bengals knew it would be difficult to replace tackle Andrew Whitworth and guard Kevin Zeitler, but offensive line struggles plagued the team all season resulting in an inconsistent running game and inability to protect quarterback Andy Dalton, who was sacked 39 times. Dalton passed for more than 3,300 yards and 25 touchdowns, but he also had 12 interceptions and an 86.6 rating for the season.
Rookie running back Joe Mixon became a starter in Week 8 and led the team with 626 yards and four touchdowns. Wide receiver John Ross, the Bengals' first-round pick, barely saw the field before being placed on injured reserve, one of several key injuries that plagued the Bengals throughout the season. Dalton had a subpar season, but, another draft choice, fourth-round linebacker Carl Lawson, led all rookies in sacks.