Who did the Cincinnati Bengals draft on Day 3 of the 2026 NFL Draft?

The Cincinnati Bengals selected Auburn's interior offensive lineman Connor Lew with their first pick on Day 3 of the 2026 NFL Draft.

Why was Connor Lew available late in the 2026 NFL Draft?

Connor Lew fell to Day 3 because he suffered a torn ACL in October 2025, which cut his college season short.

What makes Connor Lew a valuable pick for the Bengals?

Connor Lew is considered a valuable pick due to his high intelligence, versatility, pro-ready skills, and being ranked as the top center in the draft, despite his injury.

Home / Sports / Injured Star Connor Lew Becomes Bengals' Day 3 Steal

Injured Star Connor Lew Becomes Bengals' Day 3 Steal

25 Apr

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Summary

Bengals traded back to select Auburn's Connor Lew at pick 128.
Lew, considered a potential early pick, fell due to a torn ACL.
Lew offers versatility as an interior offensive lineman and center.

Injured Star Connor Lew Becomes Bengals' Day 3 Steal

The Cincinnati Bengals drafted Auburn interior offensive lineman Connor Lew with their first selection on Day 3 of the 2026 NFL Draft, picking him at No. 128 overall. The team strategically traded back from pick No. 110, exchanging it and pick No. 199 for picks No. 128 and No. 140. This move allowed Cincinnati to acquire a highly-rated prospect later in the fourth round.

Lew's availability on Day 3 is attributed to a torn ACL he sustained in October 2025, which cut his season short. Had he remained healthy, he was widely considered a potential first- or second-round selection. His ability to identify blitzes and communicate pre-snap adjustments is expected to benefit quarterback Joe Burrow.