Jonah Williams. Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Bengals offensive tackle requests trade

By Aaron Becker | Last updated 3/17/23

The Bengals made a big splash in free agency by signing LT Orlando Brown Jr. to a four-year, $64.09 million contract Wednesday. But not everyone on the team was happy with the move.

Offensive tackle Jonah Williams has officially requested a trade after protecting QB Joe Burrow in 47 games. Still just 25, Williams will become the top tackle available if Cincinnati is willing to move on.

Rarely are legit starting LTs available. But circumstances have changed in Cincy. Jonah Williams is due $12.6M guaranteed on his 5th year option. https://t.co/pkmT4QxS31
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 17, 2023

Williams is due $12.6 million guaranteed on his fifth-year option and is coming off of a season where he allowed a league-high 12 sacks, according to Pro Football Focus.

However, it is rare for a player of his caliber to become available as Williams was the 11th overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft.

The Bengals should at least entertain Williams' request to see what compensation they could get for him. It would be a win if Cincinnati could land a day two pick but that's a lot to ask for a one-year rental unless the suitor is willing to sign him to an extension before playing a down for them.

The Bengals are also preparing to pay Burrow soon and the draft provides players on cheap rookie deals. But one thing is for sure, Cincinnati doesn't need to worry about left tackle with Brown Jr. locked up for the foreseeable future.

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