The Bengals were one of two teams with ten wins[1] that failed to make the AFC playoffs in 1986.
Third-year quarterback Boomer Esiason, who had the best season of his career, passed for a team-record 3,959 yards, 24 touchdowns and 17 interceptions with a completion percentage of 58.2 and a passer rating of 87.7, while halfback James Brooks rushed for 1,087 yards as the Bengals went 10-6, narrowly missing a playoff berth.
Linebacker Reggie Williams was selected NFL Man of the Year for his efforts to charity and the community.
The Bengals amassed a club-record 621 yards net offense in a 52–21 victory over the New York Jets on December 21.
[2] Running backs (RB) Wide receivers (WR) Tight ends (TE) Defensive linemen (DL) Defensive backs (DB) Special teams Reserve