Established
1968
City
Cincinnati
League History
1970 - Present / National Football League
1968 - 1969 / American Football League
Team History
1968 - Present / Cincinnati Bengals
Nickname
Bengals - The Cincinnati Bengals are one of the most storied franchises in NFL history, and their nickname has been part of that legacy since the team’s inception. But where did it come from? Let’s take a look at Cincinnati Bengals history and how this iconic nickname came to be.
The Bengals were founded by Paul Brown in 1968 as an expansion franchise for the AFL. When naming his new team, Brown wanted something unique and different from other teams around the league. He settled on “Bengals” after being inspired by a book he read about Bengal tigers while vacationing with his family in India during World War II. The name was meant to evoke strength, power, and courage – qualities that perfectly encapsulate football!
Cincinnati Bengals Origin
Since then, fans have embraced the moniker wholeheartedly; they proudly wear jerseys emblazoned with orange stripes like those found on Bengal Tigers when attending games or watching them at home on TV! It's no wonder why so many people consider themselves die-hard fans of this beloved franchise: not only do they get to cheer for some great athletes every Sunday (and Monday night!), but also because there is such an interesting backstory behind its unique nickname!
For any sports fan interested in learning more about their favorite NFL team - especially its origin story - understanding how Cincinnati got its name is essential! So next time you're cheering on your hometown heroes or talking shop with fellow superfans around town, know precisely why these cats go by "the Bengals."
Championship
Super Bowl 0
Stadium
2000 - Present / Paul Brown Stadium
1996 - 1999 / Cinergy Field
1970 - 1996 / Riverfront Stadium
1968 - 1969 / Nippert Stadium
Owner
1991 - Present / Mike Brown
1968 - 1991 / Paul Brown
- 1968
- 1970
- 1991
- 2000
-
Cincinnati Bengals 1968: Team Formation in AFL
Cincinnati Bengals 1968: Team Formation and Founding In the Cincinnati Bengals 1968 timeline, Paul Brown established the franchise, marking the birth of the modern Bengals. After being ousted from the Cleveland Browns, Brown sought a return to professional football. With support from Ohio Governor James A. Rhodes, Cincinnati was selected as the home for Ohio’s second NFL/AFL team. In 1967, ... -
Riverfront Stadium Shifting: Cincinnati Bengals 1970
Cincinnati Bengals 1970: Riverfront Stadium Move and Breakthrough Season In the Cincinnati Bengals 1970 timeline, the franchise made a major step forward by moving into Riverfront Stadium. After playing their first two seasons at Nippert Stadium on the University of Cincinnati campus, the Bengals began the Cincinnati Bengals 1970 season in the brand-new downtown riverfront venue shared with the Cincinnati ... -
Cincinnati Bengals 1991: Founder Paul Brown Dies
Cincinnati Bengals 1991: Paul Brown Dies and Franchise Transition In the Cincinnati Bengals 1991 timeline, the franchise lost its legendary founder when Paul Brown died on August 5, 1991. Paul Brown, who created the Bengals during the Cincinnati Bengals 1968 team formation and guided the club for over two decades, passed away at age 82 from complications of pneumonia. Although ... -
Cincinnati Bengals 2000: Paul Brown Stadium
Cincinnati Bengals 2000: Paul Brown Stadium Opening and New Era In the Cincinnati Bengals 2000 timeline, the franchise entered a new chapter with the opening of Paul Brown Stadium. Named in honor of Bengals founder Paul Brown, the modern venue replaced the aging Riverfront Stadium as the team’s home. The Cincinnati Bengals 2000 move to Paul Brown Stadium provided state-of-the-art ...
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Mount Rushmore Cincinnati Bengals: The Greatest Players in Team History!
In this video, we take an in-depth look at the four players who have earned their place on the Bengals' Mount Rushmore, representing the pinnacle of the team's history. From iconic moments to game-changing plays, discover who made the cut and why they are celebrated as the greatest Bengals of all time. Whether you're a die-hard Bengals fan or just love football, this is a must-watch for anyone interested in the legacy of the Cincinnati Bengals.
Cincinnati Bengals History
The Cincinnati Bengals, home to the NFL Greatest Player Anthony Muñoz, are one of the most storied franchises in NFL history. Founded in 1966, they have been a mainstay of the AFC North since their inception and have made several deep playoff runs throughout their 54-year existence. The team has also seen its fair share of controversy over the years, from controversial head coaches to player arrests and suspensions due to off-field incidents. Despite all this tumult, one thing remains constant: The Cincinnati Bengals’ commitment to winning football games.
Following the Cincinnati Bengals history in 1981, under legendary coach Forrest Gregg, the Bengals posted a 12–4 record and reached Super Bowl XVI. They faced Joe Montana’s San Francisco 49ers but lost 26–21 in a heartbreaking finish for fans. Just two years later, Sam Wyche became head coach and revived the team. Over eight seasons, he delivered four playoff appearances and 91 total wins.
The Bengals enjoyed another strong run in 1988, advancing through three playoff rounds. They returned to the Super Bowl but narrowly lost 20–16 to the 49ers in Super Bowl XXIII. This made Cincinnati one of only six teams to reach consecutive Super Bowls without earning a victory. Despite the losses, this era established the Bengals as a competitive and resilient franchise.
Cincinnati Bengals Achievements
From 2003 to 2018, Marvin Lewis led the team for 15 seasons, the longest coaching stint in Bengals history. His leadership brought five division titles and consistent playoff appearances. Star players also shined during this era. Chad Johnson, later known as Ochocinco, thrilled fans, while Carson Palmer earned two Comeback Player of the Year awards. With Zac Taylor taking over in 2019, the Bengals continued to fight for championship success.
The Cincinnati Bengals history is defined by remarkable achievements, including multiple AFC Championships and Super Bowl appearances. Their strong Bengals QB history features iconic names like Ken Anderson, Boomer Esiason, and Joe Burrow, each leading the team in different eras. From thrilling playoff runs to record-breaking performances, the Bengals have built a proud tradition that continues to shape their place in professional football.
Retired Number
54 / Bob Johnson
*Blue is this team’s history