Colts Given a Trade Target to Pursue from AFC Foe

"Slaton is entering the final year of a two-year deal, and the Bengals could save $6.7 million by moving him. That's a considerable amount for a player who might not see extensive playing time in 2026."

Jan 4, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle T.J. Slaton Jr. (98) celebrates following a play against the Cleveland Browns during the fourth quarter at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

Slaton (6'5", 340, 28 years old) was a fifth-round pick by the Green Bay Packers in 2021 out of Florida before hitting free agency in 2025, when he was intriguing enough for the Bengals to sign him to a two-year deal worth $14.1 million. Slaton represents a $9.16 million salary cap hit in 2026, which may be too steep for a player who isn't a starter for their new team.

"While Slaton started all 17 games for Cincinnati last year, that was before the Bengals signed Jonathan Allen and traded for Dexter Lawrence II," Knox said. "With B.J. Hill and 2024 second-round pick Kris Jenkins also in Cincinnati's defensive-line rotation, Slaton is probably looking at a very reduced role.

"The Bengals should be able to request a fairly decent return for Slaton, given the lack of blue-chip defensive linemen in this year's draft. Teams that missed out on one should at least give the Bengals a call."

The Bengals went scorched-earth to solve their defensive line issues this offseason, which may result in players who were once primary contributors, such as Slaton, being cast aside.

In 85 career games (53 starts), Slaton has 186 tackles (10 for loss), 5.0 sacks, 14 QB hits, and four pass breakups.

The Colts still have plenty of cap space to make a move like this, with $26.6 million remaining, according to OverTheCap. However, Slaton's price tag is likely too much after what the Colts have spent on their own defensive line this offseason.