The Bengals had high expectations when they drafted Missouri’s Justin Smith fourth overall in the 2001 NFL Draft. Blessed with high motor intensity, brute functional strength, and relentless stamina on the edge, the defensive end proved to be an instant, durable anchor for the Bengals' front four.

Smith made an immediate splash as a rookie in 2001, setting a franchise rookie record with 8.5 sacks despite holding out during training camp. That breakout season ignited a remarkable seven-year run in Queen City, where his durability became his calling card: he missed just four games as a rookie and never missed a single contest again during his time in Cincinnati.

Operating as a traditional 4-3 right defensive end, Smith brought an unyielding physical presence to the defense, setting a tough edge against the run while consistently generating pressure. He registered at least 5.0 sacks in six of his seven seasons with the Bengals, peaking with an 8.0-sack campaign in 2004 and a career-best 80 combined tackles in 2006.

Following the 2007 season, Smith hit free agency and signed with the San Francisco 49ers, where a shift to 3-4 defensive end unlocked an all-pro tier that yielded five consecutive Pro Bowl selections and a First-Team All-Pro nod.  As a Bengal, Smith accumulated 470 combined tackles, 43.5 sacks, two interceptions, six forced fumbles, and five fumble recoveries.