The Cincinnati Bengals today announced the formation of a Ring of Honor to recognize former players, coaches and individuals who have played a significant role in the franchise's history and tradition.
The Ring of Honor will be displayed on the East facade inside Paul Brown Stadium and live on Bengals digital channels. Four people will be inducted in the inaugural class with a halftime ceremony during a Bengals home game this season.
"We are embarking on an exciting new chapter," said Bengals Executive Vice President Katie Blackburn. "This is an important year to bring people back together and engage in meaningful ways that build community. Through the Bengals Ring of Honor, we will be able to celebrate our great history and keep memories alive as we create content that can be shared for generations to come."
The Ring of Honor will be a recurring tradition. The first two members of the inaugural class are Paul Brown and Anthony Muñoz. Season Ticket Members and Suite Owners will select the remaining two members from a ballot that will be released in May.
"The Bengals Ring of Honor is a way to show our appreciation for individuals who have made a significant impact on our franchise," said Bengals President Mike Brown. "We selected Paul Brown and Anthony Muñoz. They are in the Hall of Fame in Canton and it pleases me to put them out front as our initial inductees. We have a lot great players and coaches to honor and it will be fun to reminisce as we go about this process."
Paul Brown was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1967. Brown, who is known as one of the greatest innovators in pro football history, founded the Bengals and served as the team's first head coach and general manager.
Muñoz was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1998 in his first year of eligibility. Considered by many to be the greatest left tackle ever, Munoz played in two Super Bowls, was an 11-time Pro Bowler and received the NFL Man of the Year Award in 1991.
"I am humbled to be a member of the inaugural class of the Bengals Ring of Honor alongside Paul Brown," said Muñoz. "I think about all of the guys I played with when I think about this honor. The organization has had some amazing, amazing players over the 50-plus years of existence. I think it's great because now we get to celebrate all of the guys and that's what it's all about."
The Bengals will announce the two people joining Brown and Muñoz in the inaugural class in conjunction with a dedicated Ring of Honor home game later this year. For more information, visit bengals.com/ringofhonor.
