As a former offensive lineman (and defensive lineman), I’m absolutely loving this.

Cincinnati Bengals guard Cody Ford typically plays on the offensive line, performing his role effectively but without drawing much attention. Sunday afternoon, however, everything shifted as he emerged as the centerpiece of the team’s offensive efforts.

Ford positioned himself close to the sideline on Cincy quarterback Joe Burrow‘s right side, and at the snap, nobody anticipated that the offensive lineman would play any real role in the unfolding action. (RELATED: Patriots’ Mike Vrabel Beautifully Disrespects Hated Jets During 35-3 Blowout)

The Arizona Cardinals’ defense — along with everyone in the stadium and watching at home — was completely caught off guard.

Ford didn’t just haul in the pass. He powered forward in a gritty, stumbling run that netted 21 yards, with 17 of those coming after he secured the catch.

And the best part: this happened on his 29th birthday.

WATCH:

Play of the Day: The #Bengals just lined up OL Cody Ford as an outside WR — and Joe Burrow actually threw it to him for 21 yards.

Today is Ford’s birthday. pic.twitter.com/26Y8TRlVmy

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) December 28, 2025

And Burrow’s reaction to everything just makes this whole situation even better.

Joe Burrow was shocked at Cody Ford’s YAC ability 😱 pic.twitter.com/nsHG80iu7d

— NFL (@NFL) December 28, 2025

Seeing wacky plays like this is definitely a sign that we’re near the end of the season, and I’m not gonna lie, I’m starting to feel that sadness that you feel every year when it’s all said and done.

And I’m like this before the NFL Playoffs and the College Football Playoff’s conclusion, just imagine how I’ll be when it really is over.