Defensive end Carlos Dunlap set a career-high 9.5 quarterback sacks during his rookie campaign, rivaling this unknown kid named Ndamukong Suh for most sacks by a rookie. Despite failing to challenge his career-mark in sacks, Dunlap has made significant strides in becoming a better pass rusher -- sometimes a rush is better than a sack, forcing the quarterback to hasten his delivery or overthrow a receiver to the loving embrace of Dre Kirkpatrick.
In five seasons with the Bengals, Dunlap has generated 35.5 quarterback sacks, 10 forced fumbles, and reached a career-high in tackles (66) last season. There's only room for growth and it's clear he's grown -- especially as a run defender:
During Tuesday's media luncheon, Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis reiterated a logical belief that "Dunlap's emergence was overlooked" last season.
Marvin Lewis thought Carlos Dunlap's emergence was overlooked last year and he's made as many strides as anyone this offseason.
— Paul Dehner Jr. (@pauldehnerjr) July 28, 2015
Lewis says emergence of Dunlap was overlooked last year and has continued it into this offseason
— Geoff Hobson (@GeoffHobsonCin) July 28, 2015
Dunlap earned a five-year extension prior to the 2014 season, worth nearly $40 million with $11.7 million guaranteed. The Bengals will look to see his continued growth and improvement this year.