REPORT: Cincinnati Bengals Trade Former First Round Pick to Pittsburgh Steelers in Huge 2024 Trade Proposal

Cincinnati might be ready to part ways with their skilled defender. The Bengals have faced challenges in finding standout players in their last two draft cohorts, failing to uncover top-tier talent akin to previous years.

Despite high draft positions for players like Joe Burrow (first overall in 2020) and Ja’Marr Chase (fifth overall in 2021), the recent draft classes haven’t delivered notable performances from their top prospects.

Cincinnati Bengals Expected to Make Monster Trade With Division Rival

After adding safeties Geno Stone and Vonn Bell in the offseason, it appears challenging for Dax Hill, the 2022 first-round pick, to secure playing time. Despite his struggles to finish his inaugural season as a starter, the former Michigan player deserves a chance to demonstrate his abilities. However, the crowded safety lineup makes it tough for him.

There’s speculation about Hill transitioning to cornerback, but with established starters like Cam Taylor-Britt, D.J. Turner, and Mike Hilton already in place, it seems like a daunting task for him to break through. Additionally, Hill still has two years remaining on his rookie contract, with the possibility of a fifth-year option, making it unlikely for him to leave Cincinnati without the team absorbing his contract as a dead cap penalty.

While Hill possesses talent, being selected 31st overall in the 2022 NFL Draft, the depth in Cincinnati’s defensive backfield might limit his opportunities with the Bengals. An intra-division trade to Pittsburgh could rejuvenate his career, given the Steelers’ significant needs in the defensive secondary beyond standout Minkah Fitzpatrick. Hill’s versatility could make him a valuable asset anywhere in the secondary.

The main challenge with such a trade would be the compensation. Despite being a first-round pick two years ago, Hill might only fetch a third-round selection based on his potential. This pick could be crucial for Cincinnati as they seek to inject youth into their aging defense. While Hill has been a steady contributor for two years, the lack of a breakout season might prompt the organization to consider moving on from him.