5 players the Cincinnati Bengals should trade before the deadline

2. DT Geno Atkins

Atkins missed the first four games of the season with a shoulder injury, so the idea of limiting his snaps (19) in Week 5 against the Ravens wasn’t ridiculous. But he played just 18 defensive snaps (29 percent share) in Week 6 against the Colts, which has prompted some frustration with his role.

According to Tyler Dragon of the Cincinnati Enquirer, the Bengals’ coaching staff has told Atkins and fellow defensive lineman Carlos Dunlap their limited roles are “what’s best for the team” going forward. Dragon also added that multiple players are questioning why the two veterans have become situational players.

Atkins, 32, is an eight-time Pro Bowler and he earned that eighth selection just last year. He is under contract through 2022, though as with Dunlap the guaranteed salary in his deal is gone. He might be cut next offseason, but Atkins can presumably still play a little and thus he’s a tradeable asset.

Atkins dropped below nine sacks for the first time since 2014 last year, and has not dented the stat sheet in his 37 snaps this year. The Bengals seem committed to reducing his role, despite not having a lot a defensive tackle, so it may only be a matter of time before Atkins makes a push for a trade behind the scenes.