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Notable defensive line and linebacker measurements for Bengals draft targets

Jan 19, 2026; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) passes the ball under pressure by Miami Hurricanes defensive lineman Rueben Bain Jr. (4) in the third quarter during the College Football Playoff National Championship game at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images | Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images

As on-field workouts are getting ready to take place, the measurements for the first group of players have come in. Some of the top players are not expected to test in Indianapolis, but we now know what they are currently weighing in at, how tall they are, and who has tiny T-Rex arms that should not see them drafted in the first 9 picks this year.

Rueben Bain Jr. measured in at 6’2” and 263 pounds. His arm length was always expected to come in short, but it was a bit shorter than even was expected. His arm length came in at 30 7/8”.

Another pass rusher that many expect could go in the first round is Cashius Howell. He came in with even shorter arms, measuring at 30 1/4”. While these numbers in a vacuum look concerning, I wouldn’t say it is as crucial to Bain as it is to Howell. Howell has issues disengaging from blocks and has a low stop percentage as a run defender. Those things can be directly linked to how short his arms are.

Bain does not face similar issues when watching his tape. For both players, it would be the shortest arm length for a first-round draft pick since at least 1999.

Peter Woods is another player who has been connected to the Cincinnati Bengals at pick #10. He was listed at 6’3” and 315 pounds by Clemson. He measured in at 6’2” and 298 pounds. Typically, if a player is coming in that much lighter, you can expect them to put on a show during testing at the combine.

Woods has decided not to test at the combine and instead will be waiting for his Pro Day. After having a disappointing 2025 season compared to expectations, this is feeling less and less like a player that will be selected in the top 10 this year.

On the flip side, Sonny Styles from Ohio State measured in at 6’5” and 244 pounds. That is an incredible size for a linebacker prospect with his athleticism. Hopefully, we will see him do testing, which is expected to be quite the sight to behold. Styles could be the talk of the entire Scouting Combine, similar to guys like Shemar Stewart and Nick Emmanwori a year ago.

Comment below who you are most excited to see over the next few days.

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