Former Bengals first-round pick released by AFC North rival
The Bengals may have a shot to rekindle an old flame.
The Cincinnati Bengals could add a familiar face to their roster.
A former first-round pick of the Bengals in 2016, cornerback William Jackson III, was released by the Pittsburgh Steelers on Friday.
Jackson played for the Bengals for five seasons. Unfortunately for Jackson, he suffered a torn pectoral muscle during his rookie campaign and didn't play that season.
Once he got on the field, Jackson had some pretty good production.
In his final four seasons in Cincinnati, Jackson started 48 of the 59 games he played in. He racked up 150 tackles, three interceptions, 41 passes defended, and a defensive touchdown.
In 2021, Jackson signed a three-year deal worth $40.5 million with the then-Washington Football Team.
Jackson's first season in Washington was very solid with 39 tackles, two interceptions, and eight pass breakups. However, he only played in four games last season due in large part to being benched which led to a trade request that ultimately landed him in Pittsburgh.
Jackson was placed on injured reserve last November and never played a snap for the Steelers.
The Bengals were 26th against the pass last season so they could certainly use some more bodies. Jackson is available, and now it'll be interesting to see if the Bengals give him a call.
