July 16 will be a day these two Cincinnati Bengals legends never forget. The team took to social media to announce the newest members of the Ring of Honor. The yearly tradition continues as Bengals fans can see them inducted at Paycor Stadium during halftime of the New York Jets game on October 26.
Debuted in 2021, the Bengals Ring of Honor pays tributes to legends of the past. Last year, Corey Dillon and Tim Krumrie etched their names in history. Boomer Esiason and Chad Johnson took the call in 2023 to join other legends such as Paul Brown and Willie Anderson.
Dave Lapham and Lemar Parrish Join Ring of Honor
In a post on social media, the Bengals revealed that Lapham and Parrish are the latest inductees. Both will be in Cincinnati on October 26 for a 1PM EST kickoff in a game where the Bengals look to make a statement.
2025 Ring of Honor Inductees Dave Lapham and Lemar Parrish speak to the media.
https://t.co/wpxy5PISDt— Cincinnati Bengals (@Bengals) July 16, 2025
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A 55 minute press conference was held later in the day to honor both Lapham and Parrish. Geoff Hobson broke down the inductions in his article, saying, “When it came to marking their ballots, season ticket members opted for their version of That ’70s Show.”
The Legacy of ‘Mr. Bengal’
Lapham played in Cincinnati from 1974-83 before heading to the New Jersey Generals. The Bengals remained the only NFL team he played for as the Generals were part of the United States Football League. Having played 140 career games, Lapham started 105 of those. He was named to both the Bengals 40th and 50th Anniversary teams.
After his time as a player, Bengals fans fell in love with Lapham’s voice. He is entering his 50th overall season with the team, this being his 40th season as an announcer. During his tenure on the team, the offensive lineman played all five line positions.
Two legends. Etched in stripes.#WhoDey pic.twitter.com/dUbWePwFoJ
— Cincinnati Bengals (@Bengals) July 16, 2025
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“I very much appreciate their support. It’s been like a dream come true. It’s been magical,” Lapham said.
He added, “I can’t believe how fortunate I feel. I don’t know why the good Lord put his hand down on my shoulder and said, ‘You’re going to get what you’re hoping for, son.’”
Lemar Parrish’s Historic Career
Racking up 13 interceptions in his career, Parrish has the third most non-offensive NFL touchdowns in the 20th century. Whether he was on offense, defense, or returning punts, the eight-time Pro Bowler seemed unstoppable.
Parrish was named First-team All-Pro three times in his career, with two of those honors being during his time in Washington. He played eight seasons in Cincinnati before playing four in Washington and one in Buffalo.
Fellow Ring of Honor inductee, Paul Brown, had the honor of coaching both of these men. He touched on Parrish’s contributions, “He’s one of our best players ever.”
The 77-year-old said he was not surprised of the vote, “Nothing surprises me anymore. It is what it is these days. I put up the numbers. It’s up to them. This is something I lived for and trained for. I’m very pleased. I want to thank Mike and the fans for voting for me. I’m grateful and thankful.”
New Bengals fans may not be aware of his 18.8 yards per punt return in 1974. It marks a Bengals single-season record, and stands the test of time in the NFL record book.
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