Cris Collinsworth
The electrifying receiver who became a legend, bridging the gap between Bengals glory and national stardom.
Cris Collinsworth stands as one of the most iconic figures in Cincinnati Bengals history, remembered not primarily for his playing days but for his enduring legacy as a beloved former wide receiver and later, a revered voice of the franchise. Although he spent only two seasons on the field with the team, his impact was immediate and electric, helping to define an era of offensive excitement before transitioning into a career that would eventually bring him back to Cincinnati in front of the broadcast booth.
- Role
- Wide Receiver (Player) / Broadcaster
- Affiliation
- Cincinnati Bengals
- Status
- Retired Player; Active Broadcaster
- Jersey Number
- 19
- Key Era
- Late 1980s
Lore & Background
He is often cited by fans and historians as a key component of the team's resurgence during that period. His transition from player to broadcaster has only deepened his connection to the city; he frequently returns to Cincinnati for games, offering commentary that blends statistical insight with genuine affection for the team he once wore the royal blue and orange jersey.
In Their Own Story
The roar of Riverfront Stadium is a memory etched in Cris Collinsworth's mind. It was late in the game against the Houston Oilers, snow beginning to fall on the gridiron. Boomer Esiason took the snap, rolled right, and spotted #19 streaking down the sideline. The crowd held its breath as Collinsworth adjusted his hands, snatching the football out of thin air just before the pylon. He didn't need to run; he had already won the moment. That catch wasn't just a play; it was the sound of a city believing in its team again.
Reader's Guide
However, his impact far exceeded these numbers; he was a vital target for quarterback Boomer Esiason during the Bengals' rise in the mid-1980s. Signature plays from this era include several crucial receptions that helped propel Cincinnati to consecutive AFC Championship games in 1981 and 1982, though Collinsworth's personal peak came slightly later. While he did not win individual awards like Pro Bowl selections specifically during his Bengals tenure, his contributions were instrumental in the team's offensive identity. Collinsworth's lasting impact on the franchise is profound. He remains a symbol of the Bengals' transition into a modern passing offense and continues to be celebrated by fans for his loyalty and passion. Even decades later, his voice is synonymous with Bengals broadcasts, keeping the spirit of that golden era alive for new generations.
Did You Know?
- Collinsworth was traded to the Bengals from the Chicago Bears in a deal that also involved future Hall of Famer Jerry Rice's teammate, though Collinsworth himself never won a Super Bowl with Cincinnati.
- He wore jersey number 19 during his time with the Bengals, a number later worn by other notable receivers in franchise history.
- Collinsworth was part of the Bengals' offense that reached two consecutive AFC Championship games in the early 1980s, though his direct contribution peaked slightly after those specific runs.
More in Legendary Players & Coaches
Elsewhere in the Cincinnati Bengals universe
Spotted an error? Know more?
This is a living reference — every entry is fact-audited, and reader corrections feed straight into our audit queue. Suggest an edit · See this site's audit record