In a surprising twist to the Bengals’ defensive depth chart, rumblings around the league suggest that young defensive tackle McKinnley Jackson may have requested a trade, seeking a larger role and a clearer path to meaningful snaps. While nothing has been confirmed by Cincinnati or Jackson’s camp, the buzz has already stirred conversation across the NFL — and raised questions about the Bengals’ future plans in the trenches, especially in drafts. Subscribe to our Newsletter by using the popup or the form below!
Why a Trade Makes Sense From Jackson’s Side
Jackson arrived in Cincinnati as a powerful interior presence built for AFC North football — strong at the point of attack, disruptive when shaded over guards, and loaded with upside as a run-stuffer. But like many young linemen joining a veteran-heavy rotation, opportunities have been limited, yes, even on a relatively bad Bengals defense.
If the reports are true, Jackson’s thinking likely centers around playing time, thinking he’s ready for a bigger role, and more than likely, broken promises. This has been a common theme with Al Golden’s defense thus far, as this is the third, yes, THIRD player to request a trade from the defense.
For a player with Jackson’s motor and physical tools, carving out a consistent role behind entrenched starters could be frustrating — and requesting a trade would signal confidence in his ability to start elsewhere, a confidence perhaps the Cincinnati Bengals don’t share.
McKinnley Jackson’s Value: Is It There?
One could assume someone that was drafted in the third, inside the top 150 picks at that, would have some value. If he does, in the Bengals eyes, it’s not with them. The Bengals have been so preposterous when it comes to developing trench defenders that it won’t shock me at all to see someone toss a 7th round pick for Jackson and him end up showing out with that team.
I think what remains to be seen is what his true value, if any, he has. He has been a healthy scratch 6 of 8 games for the Bengals, it’s pretty easy to see why he would want out. He hasn’t even been given a chance, especially after looking well in the preseason. It seems like Al Golden is coaching like he’s in a 1 year contract. He’s been very stubborn with who he’ll allow see time.
What Teams Could Come Calling?
Should Cincinnati entertain trade discussions, several teams thin on defensive interior talent could emerge as suitors, including:
- Detroit Lions — contender that values gritty interior defenders and isn’t afraid to stick a Bengal in the rotation
- Carolina Panthers — rebuilding core with immediate need for young talent
- Houston Texans — could continue stacking young defensive talent especially with injuries
Jackson fits the modern prototype of an interior defender: powerful, relatively smart in gap control, and able to plug lanes against heavy downhill rushing teams. He’s also quicker than normal for his size and is built like a total bowling ball. This could be nothing more than a cry for playing time, it wouldn’t be the first time a Bengal has done this. Will it be rewarded, though? Probably not.
