Jalen Rivers

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

The Bengals landed a solid value play in signing guard Jalen Rivers to a four-year, $4.6M deal ($1.2M AAV), earning a B CVI that reflects smart roster building at a premium position. At just $1.2M annually, Cincinnati is paying depth piece money for a player who provides reliable interior line insurance without breaking the bank — a crucial consideration given how quickly offensive line injuries can derail a season. The minimal guaranteed money ($0.4M) gives the Bengals plenty of flexibility to move on if Rivers doesn't develop or if they find a better option, while the four-year term provides cost certainty through Rivers' prime developmental window. For a team that's seen firsthand how offensive line depth can make or break playoff runs, securing a competent guard at this price point represents the kind of unglamorous but essential roster construction that championship teams execute. This B CVI deal won't make headlines, but it's exactly the type of move that allows Cincinnati to allocate bigger money to skill positions while maintaining adequate protection for Joe Burrow.

Performance Analysis

Jalen Rivers receives an F grade as a rookie guard who started 16 games for the Bengals in 2025 but did not earn favorable performance marks. Getting 16 starts as a first-year offensive lineman is an achievement in itself, showing Cincinnati's confidence in Rivers as part of their offensive rebuild. However, the F grade indicates his pass protection and run blocking were below the standard needed to protect Joe Burrow and open running lanes. Young guards often struggle in their first year, and the learning curve at the NFL level is steep for interior linemen. Rivers has the playing time foundation to improve significantly in Year 2, but the Bengals need to see a major leap in his technique and consistency.