Bengals should consider trade for Pro Bowl cornerback during bye week

The Cincinnati Bengals have a potential defensive opportunity during their bye week, according to reports from The Athletic. Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Riq Woolen has surfaced as a possible target for the Bengals, with trade discussions taking place. While the Eagles have not confirmed shopping Woolen, the Bengals see merit in investigating this option.

Cincinnati has faced multiple injuries at the cornerback position, with Jalen Davis and Ja Sir Taylor both landing on injured reserve. This has led to key defensive players like Dax Hill and DJ Ivey having to fill in, creating a more crowded secondary with DJ Turner II. The 27-year-old Woolen stands 6-foot-4, ran a 4.26-second 40-yard dash before entering the NFL, and earned Pro Bowl honors as a rookie.

He has earned a 66.9 overall defensive grade from Pro Football Focus this season, placing him 31st among 104 qualifying cornerbacks through five games. Financially, Woolen signed a one-year, $12 million deal with Philadelphia, including a $6 million signing bonus. While his contract structure complicates the precise cap impact of a trade, the Bengals wouldn't be committing to a long-term contract.

Given the Bengals' history of aggressive moves, such as acquiring Dexter Lawrence, Woolen could be a potential target for the team.