Carlos Dunlap arrived in Cincinnati as a second-round pick fresh off earning Defensive MVP honors in the 2009 BCS National Championship Game. Possessing a massive 6-foot-6 frame, 34-inch arms, and rare length for an edge defender, Dunlap transformed from a pass-rush specialist into one of the most complete and durable defensive ends in franchise history.

During his initial three seasons (2010–2012), defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer predominantly utilized Dunlap in passing situations to optimize his physical attributes. He made an immediate impact as a rookie, establishing a Bengals rookie record with 9.5 sacks in only 12 games. By 2013, Dunlap had secured a permanent starting position on the left side of Cincinnati's defensive line, where his reach enabled him to neutralize edge runs while consistently applying pressure on quarterbacks.

Dunlap reached his peak in the mid-2010s, anchoring the defensive line for a consistent playoff team. In 2015, he achieved a career-high 13.5 sacks, the second-most in team history, along with two forced fumbles and 16 tackles for loss, earning his first Pro Bowl. He was again selected in 2016, with 8.0 sacks and a standout ability to bat down 15 passes at the line, solidifying his status as one of the league's top pass-deflectors.

His more than ten-year tenure with the Bengals abruptly concluded during the 2020 season. Frustrated by a diminished role in Lou Anarumo's system and openly expressing his dissatisfaction, Dunlap asked for a trade. Cincinnati approved his request in the middle of the season, sending him to the Seattle Seahawks in October 2020.

Across 11 seasons with the Bengals (2010–2020), Dunlap played in 155 regular-season games (115 starts) and six postseason contests. He generated 82.5 sacks, 103 tackles for loss, 227 quarterback hits, and 20 forced fumbles.