Bengals Linebacker Logan Wilson Requests Trade Amid Team Shuffle

CINCINNATI, Ohio — Bengals linebacker Logan Wilson has requested a trade, according to a source who spoke with ESPN on Thursday. This comes as Wilson, a team captain, has seen his role diminish this season as rookies take on more defensive responsibilities.

Wilson has started all seven games for Cincinnati, but his defensive snap percentage has dropped significantly, playing only 19.7% of snaps in a Week 6 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers and 47.5% in a Week 7 victory against the Seattle Seahawks. The Bengals currently hold a record of 3-4 and are leaning toward younger players in their lineup.

“Wilson has played a pivotal role in the turnaround of our defense since he joined the team,” said Bengals coach Zac Taylor. “However, we are committed to developing our younger talent in the middle of the defense.”

The 29-year-old Wilson was drafted in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft and has been vital to Cincinnati’s defensive scheme, making 75 starts across six seasons, with significant contributions including forced fumbles and interceptions.

While his reduction in playing time has prompted Wilson’s trade request, it is believed that the Bengals could be open to discussions as they look to adjust their roster before the NFL Trade Deadline on November 4.

In his seven games this season, Wilson has recorded 41 tackles, one fumble recovery, and four pass defenses. He signed a four-year, $36 million extension in 2023 and has two years remaining on that contract.

In the meantime, Wilson has maintained a positive attitude despite the changes, helping rookies like Barrett Carter adjust to the starting role. “I still lean on him heavily with stuff,” said Carter. “He’s been a great leader since day one.”