
Nov 11, 2018; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Bengals offensive guard Clint Boling (65) against the New Orleans Saints at Paul Brown Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports
Clint Boling, a former offensive lineman for Georgia, has turned 36. Happy birthday!
On his 36th birthday, Clint Boling is a celebrated figure, not just within the Georgia Bulldogs football community, but across the NFL landscape as well. Over the years, Boling has exemplified the qualities of hard work, resilience, and leadership, becoming an influential part of both his college team and the Cincinnati Bengals during his professional career. A player whose career is deeply rooted in his love for the game, Boling’s journey to the NFL was shaped by his time at Georgia and defined by his success in the professional ranks.
Clint Boling was born on May 8, 1989, in Alpharetta, Georgia, a suburb just north of Atlanta. From an early age, his athletic prowess was apparent, but it was football that ultimately captured his full attention. Boling attended Chattahoochee High School, where he excelled on the football field. It was here that his potential as an offensive lineman began to emerge. His dominance on the field didn’t go unnoticed, and as a result, he was highly recruited by several top college football programs across the country.
Ultimately, Boling decided to stay close to home and committed to the University of Georgia, joining the Bulldogs in 2007. During his time at Georgia, Boling made an immediate impact. He quickly established himself as a versatile and talented offensive lineman, capable of playing multiple positions along the line. His ability to adapt and his strong work ethic earned him a starting spot during his sophomore year, and he never looked back.
Boling’s college career spanned four years, during which he became a key part of Georgia’s offensive line. Playing in the SEC, one of the toughest conferences in college football, he faced some of the nation’s best defensive linemen every week. But Boling stood firm, proving his mettle and ability to handle the physicality of the league. By the end of his college career, he had earned multiple honors and was widely regarded as one of the top offensive linemen in the country.
In his senior season, Boling was named an All-SEC performer and was recognized for his consistency and leadership on the field. His success was not just measured by his individual accolades but also by the way he contributed to the team’s success. Boling’s time at Georgia was a pivotal point in his football career, setting the foundation for the professional success that would follow.
After declaring for the NFL Draft, Clint Boling’s career was just beginning to take shape. During the 2011 NFL Draft, Boling was selected by the Cincinnati Bengals in the fourth round, 101st overall. It was a significant moment, marking the start of his professional football career. The transition from college to the NFL is a difficult one for many players, especially for offensive linemen who must adjust to the increased speed and strength of professional athletes. But Boling was more than up to the challenge.
He entered a Bengals team that had a young quarterback in Andy Dalton and a strong, evolving offense. Boling’s role on the team was integral from the outset. Although he was drafted to be an offensive guard, Boling’s versatility allowed him to play multiple positions along the line, which made him an asset to the Bengals’ coaching staff. He started 14 games in his rookie season, proving that his ability to adapt to different positions was just one of his many strengths.
As the years went on, Clint Boling solidified his place as one of the key players on the Bengals’ offensive line. His leadership, consistency, and experience helped to anchor a unit that allowed the team to remain competitive in the tough AFC North division. Throughout his nine-year NFL career, Boling played in 120 games, starting 115 of them. He was known for his durability, playing through injuries and always putting the team first.
His time with the Bengals was highlighted by several playoff appearances, a testament to his ability to perform on the big stage. Boling’s contributions weren’t always flashy, but his consistency and ability to protect the quarterback and open up lanes for the running back made him a vital component of the Bengals’ offense.
Clint Boling’s style of play was defined by his toughness, versatility, and high football IQ. As an offensive lineman, he wasn’t the type of player who would necessarily make the highlight reels with spectacular individual plays. Instead, he was known for his ability to execute his assignments efficiently and effectively, whether it was in pass protection or run blocking.
Boling’s versatility was perhaps his greatest asset. His ability to play both guard and tackle allowed the Bengals to shift their line based on the needs of the offense. He was often tasked with handling some of the best pass rushers in the league, yet he rarely backed down. His technique and footwork were among the best, and he could match the speed and strength of even the most formidable defensive players.
As a run blocker, Boling was highly effective, creating lanes for the Bengals’ running backs. His commitment to his craft was evident in how he approached each game. Even when things weren’t going well for the offense as a whole, Boling’s level of play rarely wavered, showing his professionalism and determination.
In terms of leadership, Boling was highly respected in the Bengals’ locker room. Offensive linemen often don’t get the spotlight that other positions, such as quarterbacks and wide receivers, do, but Boling was a key figure in building the offensive line’s camaraderie. His leadership, both on and off the field, was one of the reasons why he was able to carve out such a successful and long-lasting career.
Off the field, Clint Boling’s personality and character were just as strong as his play on the gridiron. He is known for being humble, dedicated, and philanthropic, always willing to give back to his community. During his time with the Bengals, he was involved in numerous charitable activities, including working with organizations that supported youth football and helping to raise awareness for various causes.
Boling’s commitment to charity was an extension of the values instilled in him during his time at Georgia. He understood the responsibility that comes with being in the public eye and used his platform to make a positive impact. Boling’s approach to his community involvement was just one more reason why he was beloved by fans and teammates alike.
Clint Boling’s legacy extends far beyond his time with the Cincinnati Bengals or the University of Georgia. He was a player who demonstrated the power of consistency, hard work, and selflessness. In an era where players are often focused on individual accolades, Boling’s commitment to the team-first mentality stands as a testament to the importance of collective effort in achieving success.
For the Georgia Bulldogs, Boling was a key contributor to one of the most successful offensive lines in college football during his time. His transition from a high school standout to a collegiate and professional football player is a reflection of the hard work and dedication that has defined his career. For Bengals fans, Boling is remembered as a stalwart on the offensive line—someone who provided stability for nearly a decade.
On his 36th birthday, Clint Boling can reflect on a career well-lived and a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations of football players. While his playing days may be behind him, his influence on both his former teams and the football world at large remains significant.
Whether you are a Georgia fan, a Bengals supporter, or simply a lover of football, there is no denying the impact Clint Boling has had on the game. He was a player who did the dirty work—never seeking the limelight but always playing with heart, passion, and an unmatched work ethic.
As Clint Boling celebrates his 36th birthday, we look back on his incredible journey through football with admiration and gratitude. His story is one of perseverance, dedication, and the love of the game, and his legacy will live on as a model for future athletes to follow.