Season ticket members selected Anderson and Curtis from a ballot that featured 15 individuals who have played a significant role in the franchise’s history and tradition. The two will officially be inducted in a halftime ceremony during the Bengals’ Sept. 29 game against the Miami Dolphins.
“These are two of our finest all-time players,” Bengals President Mike Brown said in a press release. “Willie was as good a right offensive tackle as you could draw up. He had it all — strength, movement and attitude. Isaac had incredible speed along with great hands. This is evidence for how our fans felt about Isaac during his career. They knew he was special. The Bengals are fortunate to have both of these outstanding players in the Ring of Honor.”
Both players will be available to media later Wednesday.
Credit: Nick Graham
Credit: Nick Graham
Anderson, who played from 1996 to 2007, is regarded as one of the best right offensive tackles of his era and was on the doorstep of an NFL Hall of Fame induction last year when he finished as a semifinalist in the voting.
The four-time Pro Bowler played in 181 games for the Bengals, tied for eighth on the team’s all-time list, and he notably blocked for Corey Dillon’s two NFL-record setting games — an NFL rookie record 246 rushing yards against the Tennessee Oilers in 1997 (since broken), and an NFL record 278 rushing yards vs. the Denver Broncos in 2000 (since broken). He also helped set the club record for fewest sacks allowed twice, at 21 in 2005, and later again at 17 in 2007.
Curtis played from 1973 to 84 and still holds the team record for average yards per reception (17.07). The four-time Pro Bowler ranks third in team history in both career receiving yards (7101) and 100-yard games (20), as well as fourth in receiving touchdowns (53).
For more information on the Ring of Honor nominees visit www.bengals.com/team/ring-of-honor/nominees.
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