Connor Lew’s injury history caused his draft slide, but what a steal for the Bengals

TL;DR

Connor Lew, who suffered a torn ACL and prior MCL issues, was drafted in the fourth round by the Bengals, making him a potential steal. His recovery is reportedly ahead of schedule, showcasing his leadership and skill.

Key points

Connor Lew was drafted in the fourth round by the Bengals.
He missed part of the 2025 season due to a torn ACL.
Lew had MCL issues prior to his ACL injury.
His recovery is reportedly ahead of schedule.
He is considered a steal due to his leadership and skill.

Mentioned in this story

Auburn, Alabama

Connor LewBengals2025 NFL Draft

AUBURN, ALABAMA - OCTOBER 18: Connor Lew #75 of the Auburn Tigers runs on the field during the game against the Missouri Tigers at Jordan-Hare Stadium on October 18, 2025 in Auburn, Alabama. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Bengals just got the best center in the draft in the fourth round. What a steal.

Connor Lew missed a chunk of the 2025 season with a torn ACL, and had MCL issues prior to that. But he claims that his recovery is ahead of schedule, and the leadership qualities and skill he brings to the table make him a steal on Day 3.

Stats & Accolades

2023: (11 games played, 6 starts), SEC All-Freshman Team
2024: (12 games played, 12 starts)
2025: (7 games played, 7 starts), season-ending injury

What the Bengals are getting:

Prior to the 2025 season, Lew was widely viewed as the top center prospect at that point for the 2026 NFL Draft. He earned a starting job halfway through his true freshman season and never relinquished it. Scouts rave about his leadership and smarts for the position, something he needed to exhibit as a leader of the team in his first season on campus. Lew has the ideal combination of athleticism and strength for the position and should be viewed as a scheme-independent player.

Strengths

Started as a true freshman in the SEC, speaking to his physical and mental preparation early on
Consistently receives bumps by scouts with his A+ leadership and intangibles
Finishes his blocks and exhibits ideal temperament in a leader up front
Wrestling background

Weakness

Season-ending ACL injury took all but seven games from him in 2025

Q&A

What injuries did Connor Lew have before the draft?

Connor Lew missed part of the 2025 season due to a torn ACL and had previous MCL issues.

Why was Connor Lew considered a steal for the Bengals?

Despite his injury history, Connor Lew's leadership qualities and skill set make him a valuable addition, especially being drafted in the fourth round.

How is Connor Lew's recovery progressing after his injuries?

Connor Lew claims that his recovery is ahead of schedule following his torn ACL.