​Former Georgia Bulldog right tackle Amarius Mims could become a foundation piece for the Cincinnati Bengals. In fact, when Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox highlighted a player from each team whom he described as their “most promising building block,” Mims was one of three Bulldogs to earn a spot on the list. He joined Detroit Lions guard Tate Ratledge and Atlanta Falcons pass rusher Jalon Walker as Bulldog representatives, underscoring the national attention Mims has been drawing as he progresses in the NFL.
Mims has not yet reached star status, but his progress is noticeable. Last season, Pro Football Focus recorded a 67.6 overall grade for him, with a 66.6 grade in pass protection and a 64.8 grade in the run game (note: PFF grades often require a premium subscription for full access). Those numbers place him in the vicinity of the league average for starters at the tackle position. In the stat sheet, he yielded four sacks while generating 35 pressures, indicating both the challenges of facing stout pass rushers and the opportunities he has to improve with more experience.
A closer look at the 2024 campaign reveals a more nuanced picture. From Week 12 through Week 18, Mims posted a string of solid performances, and in all but one of those weeks his PFF grade stayed at or above 70.0. Remarkably, during that same stretch he did not allow a sack and allowed only 10 pressures, highlighting his ability to protect the quarterback even when surrounded by a challenging scheduling block of opponents. This period offered a tangible signal of growth and resilience that could translate well to the upcoming season.
Beyond the numbers, health has always been a critical factor in Mims’ development. Throughout his time at Georgia, and continuing into his NFL career with Cincinnati, he has battled high-ankle sprains that sidelined him for stretches and hindered his ability to consistently practice and play at peak efficiency. The adage that the best ability is availability has often applied to Mims, and the improvement in his health trajectory over the past season marks a meaningful turning point for him and the Bengals. When a player can stay on the field more consistently, their ability to refine footwork, balance, and technique tends to improve in tandem with in-game experience.
In Cincinnati, the plan seems straightforward: Mims is likely to handle the right tackle duties again this season, with Orlando Brown Jr. anchoring the left side and veteran former Georgia left guard Dylan Fairchild providing interior support. If Joe Burrow returns to full health and the Bengals’ defense remains stout, Cincinnati is positioned to contend in the AFC North once more. Mims’ growth will be a critical component of that puzzle, as his development across the trenches could unlock additional offensive consistency and protection for the quarterback as the team pushes for a deeper playoff run.
For fans seeking more Georgia coverage, follow UGA Wire on Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), or Threads. This article originally appeared on UGA Wire, highlighting Georgia tackle Amarius Mims as Cincinnati’s most promising building block ahead of the 2025 season.