Bengals Pursue Raiders’ Powers-Johnson to Strengthen Offensive Line Amid Burrow Injury Concerns
The Cincinnati Bengals find themselves at a precarious 2-1 following a disheartening 48-10 defeat to the Minnesota Vikings. The game underscored a persistent issue that has plagued the team: a struggling offensive line that has raised concerns, particularly regarding the health of quarterback Joe Burrow, who suffered an injury in Week 2.
Trade Speculation Surrounds Powers-Johnson
In light of these ongoing issues, Kristopher Knox has suggested a potential trade that could provide Cincinnati with the reinforcements it desperately needs. His proposal centers on acquiring Jackson Powers-Johnson from the Las Vegas Raiders. “The Raiders replaced Powers-Johnson at center with Jordan Meredith,” Knox noted, highlighting the curious decision to start Alex Cappa over the talented center, despite Powers-Johnson being ready to return from a concussion in Week 3.
Powers-Johnson, who earned the prestigious Remington Trophy in 2023, remains a promising player. He has showcased potential that suggests he could become a quality starter in the NFL. If the Raiders do not view him in this light, a trade could be mutually beneficial. Knox proposed, “A conditional fourth-round pick that can become a third-rounder based on playing time would probably be more valuable to the Raiders than the role they currently have for Powers-Johnson.”
A Promising Career on the Line
Drafted in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft out of Oregon, Powers-Johnson was widely regarded as the top center in his class. Being at the center of trade talks so early in his career is undoubtedly an unsettling situation for the young player.
As the Bengals weigh their options, the urgency to bolster their offensive line is clear, especially with Burrow’s health hanging in the balance. The upcoming weeks will be critical for Cincinnati as they navigate both their roster decisions and their efforts to remain competitive in the tough landscape of the NFL.
