Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Cashius Howell (55) during minicamp, Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at Kettering Health Practice Fields in downtown Cincinnati. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters CoIf you were caught up in the euphoria of the Bengals trading for Dexter Lawrence and giving up the No. 10 overall pick to acquire him, that maybe overshadowed who the Bengals drafted in the second round this past April. The Bengals selected Texas A&M edge rusher Cashius Howell, their first pick in this years draft. Admittedly, I was unimpressed at first. But now, Im intrigued by what last years SEC Defensive Player of the Year can bring to the Bengals defensive line.Sports Illustrateds Albert Breer, one of the most respected writers in the country, recently emptied his Bengals notebook and hadthis to say about the Bengals second-round pick.Rookie Cashius Howell wouldve been in a clump of players the Bengals discussed if they hadnt traded the No. 10 pick, so getting the Texas A&M rusher in the second round was seen internally as a coup. Hes been a monster in camp thus far, bringing the speed and explosiveness he flashed in college, and more strength than some expected.Howell made waves when he put Orlando Brown Jr. on his back this past week. Thats not just any offensive lineman, either. Brown is 68 and 350 pounds. The fact that Howell did that to him says a lot about his strength and where he is headed into his rookie season.The Bengals may need Howell to step up early with Shemar Stewart being out for several weeks with a hyperextended knee. Playing alongside Boye Mafe and Myles Murphy gives Howell veterans to learn from, which is great. But Howell isnt just another edge rusher from Texas A&M the Bengals drafted. He can play, and he can be a difference-maker off the edge. Much of the attention is on Stewart, Mafe, and Murphy, but do not overlook Howell.