Dalton William Risner Bio
Dalton William Risner is an American professional football offensive guard for the Cincinnati Bengals of the National Football League (NFL). Born on July 13, 1995, in Branson, Missouri, Risner has built a reputation as a reliable and physical presence on the offensive line. Selected by the Denver Broncos in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft, he has continued his professional career with stints in Minnesota before joining Cincinnati.
Standing 6 feet 5 inches tall and weighing approximately 312 pounds, Risner combines size, strength, and technical skill to compete at the highest level of professional football. Beyond his on-field performance, he is widely respected for his leadership and dedication to community service through philanthropic initiatives.
Early Life and Background
Dalton William Risner was born on July 13, 1995, in Branson, Missouri. He later relocated to Colorado, where he attended Wiggins High School in Wiggins, Colorado. During his time there, Risner developed a passion for football and began showcasing the athletic abilities that would eventually carry him to the collegiate level. His upbringing in a tight-knit community helped shape his strong work ethic and discipline.
Risner grew up in an environment that valued hard work and perseverance. While specific details about his family background remain private, his early experiences in Wiggins played an important role in his development as both an athlete and a person. His commitment to excellence on the football field became evident during his high school years, setting the stage for his transition to college football.
Path to Professional Football
Risner’s journey to the NFL began at Kansas State University, where he played for the Kansas State Wildcats from 2014 to 2018. During his college career, he started 50 of 51 games, demonstrating remarkable consistency and durability. As a senior, he was recognized as an All-American by numerous publications, cementing his status as one of the top offensive linemen in college football.
Throughout his time at Kansas State, Risner earned multiple accolades, including First-team All-Big 12 honors three times in 2016, 2017, and 2018. In 2018, he was also named the Big 12 Co-Offensive Lineman of the Year, a testament to his dominant performance. His collegiate success positioned him as a highly regarded prospect for the NFL, ultimately leading to his selection in the 2019 NFL Draft.
Dalton William Risner Career
Early Career (2019–2022)
Dalton William Risner was selected by the Denver Broncos in the second round, 41st overall, of the 2019 NFL Draft. As a rookie, he quickly earned the starting left guard position and held that role for the next four seasons. During this period, he missed only four games due to injury, showcasing his durability and importance to the team’s offensive line.
In recognition of his strong rookie campaign, Risner was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team. His consistent play helped anchor the Broncos’ offensive front, and he became a respected figure in the locker room. However, his time in Denver was cut short when he was placed on injured reserve on January 3, 2023, with a partial UCL tear in his right elbow.
Denver Broncos Era (2019–2022)
Risner’s tenure with the Denver Broncos marked the beginning of his professional football career. Selected as a second-round pick, he immediately stepped into a starting role and provided stability at the left guard position. His ability to protect the quarterback and open running lanes made him a key contributor to the Broncos’ offensive scheme.
Over four seasons in Denver, Risner started the majority of games and became known for his toughness and consistency. Despite the team’s challenges during his tenure, his individual performance earned him recognition, including the PFWA All-Rookie Team honor in 2019. His leadership on and off the field helped establish a strong foundation for his professional career.
Minnesota Vikings Era (2023–2024)
On September 19, 2023, Risner signed with the Minnesota Vikings, beginning a new chapter in his career. He was named the starting left guard for the remainder of the season in Week 7, quickly adapting to the Vikings’ offensive system. His veteran presence provided valuable experience to the team’s offensive line.
On May 31, 2024, Risner re-signed with the Vikings, signaling the team’s confidence in his abilities. However, he was placed on injured reserve on August 27 to begin the season, before being activated on November 2. Despite the setback, Risner remained a respected teammate and contributor during his time in Minnesota.
Cincinnati Bengals Era (2025–Present)
On August 27, 2025, Risner signed with the Cincinnati Bengals, continuing his professional football journey. Joining a competitive roster, he brings veteran experience and a physical playing style to the Bengals’ offensive line. His signing reflects the team’s commitment to strengthening their interior line for the upcoming season.
As Risner integrates into the Bengals’ system, he is expected to provide leadership and stability. His track record of durability and performance makes him a valuable addition to the team, and he looks to make an immediate impact on the field.
Playing Style and Strengths
Risner is recognized for his physicality, technique, and intelligence at the offensive guard position. Standing 6 feet 5 inches tall and weighing approximately 312 pounds, he possesses the size and strength to dominate at the line of scrimmage. His ability to read defensive schemes and adjust protections makes him a reliable presence in pass protection and run blocking. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated consistent performance and a team-first mentality.
Notable Events and Milestones
Among Risner’s most notable achievements is being named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2019 and earning First-team All-American honors in 2018. He was also recognized as the Big 12 Co-Offensive Lineman of the Year in 2018 and earned First-team All-Big 12 honors three consecutive years from 2016 to 2018. Starting 50 of 51 college games at Kansas State stands as a testament to his durability and consistency.
Dalton William Risner Career Achievements
Throughout his career, Dalton William Risner has earned recognition for his performance at both the collegiate and professional levels. His accolades include the PFWA NFL All-Rookie Team in 2019, First-team All-American honors in 2018, and Big 12 Co-Offensive Lineman of the Year in 2018. He was also a three-time First-team All-Big 12 selection from 2016 to 2018.
College Career Highlights
Risner’s college career at Kansas State was marked by exceptional consistency and dominance. He started 50 of 51 games over five seasons and earned First-team All-Big 12 honors three times. As a senior in 2018, he was named an All-American by numerous publications and won the Big 12 Co-Offensive Lineman of the Year award. His performance established him as one of the top offensive linemen in college football.
Dalton William Risner Family
Family Background and Personal Life
Details about Dalton William Risner’s family background remain largely private. Born in Branson, Missouri, and raised in Wiggins, Colorado, he has kept his personal life out of the public spotlight. His journey from a small-town athlete to an NFL player reflects the strong support system that helped shape his career.
Philanthropy and Community Involvement
Beyond football, Risner is known for his philanthropic efforts. He created the RisnerUp Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to making a positive impact in the community. Additionally, he serves as a Global Ambassador for Special Olympics International, advocating for inclusion and support for athletes with intellectual disabilities.
2025 Season Outlook
As Dalton William Risner begins his tenure with the Cincinnati Bengals in the 2025 NFL season, he brings veteran experience and a proven track record of performance. Signed on August 27, 2025, he joins a competitive roster looking to make a deep postseason run. His presence on the offensive line is expected to provide stability and leadership.
Throughout his career, Risner has demonstrated the ability to adapt to different offensive systems and contribute effectively. His signing with the Bengals marks an exciting new chapter, and he will look to build on his previous successes while helping the team achieve its goals. With his physicality, intelligence, and work ethic, Risner remains a valuable asset in the NFL.