In the NFL, draft picks are potential, but crafty veterans are production. Cincinnati Bengals center Ted Karras isn’t ready to surrender anything.
After the Bengals added potential centers Connor Lew and Brian Parker II to their offensive line room, Karras delivered a blunt reminder about life in the trenches: “You always have to fight your ass off.”
That mentality has helped define Karras since arriving in Cincinnati, and it also explains why the Bengals’ offensive line room has developed into one
of the more stable veteran groups on the roster. While the organization continues to invest in youth and depth up front, Karras made it clear this week that competition is welcomed, not feared.
According to Mike Petraglia, Karras said he personally called both Connor Lew and Brian Parker II after the draft and is looking forward to meeting them this week as rookie minicamp approaches. Rather than viewing the newcomers as threats, he appears to see them as part of the culture the Bengals are trying to build to protect franchise quarterback Joe Burrow.
That culture has become increasingly important for Cincinnati after years of battling offensive line inconsistency and injuries. The Bengals have invested heavily in protecting Burrow since his early-career injuries, and maintaining depth along the interior offensive line has become a major priority entering the 2026 season.
Karras, who has become more than just a starter for the Bengals, remains one of the key voices in that effort. He has evolved into one of the emotional leaders of the locker room, helping set the tone for younger players entering the building. His willingness to immediately reach out to Lew and Parker reflects the balance the Bengals want from their veterans: competitiveness mixed with leadership.
Still, Karras’ quote also served as a reminder of the harsh reality of the NFL. Draft status guarantees nothing. Every roster spot must be earned, especially in the trenches, where careers can change quickly, and competition never disappears.
For Lew and Parker, joining a room led by a veteran like Karras could prove invaluable. For Karras, meanwhile, the approach remains unchanged.
Fight for your spot every day.
