William Jackson III
A first round pick in 2016, William Jackson III missed his entire rookie season due to a torn pectoral muscle. Jackson started five games during his second season, but played in 15 games.
2018 was Jackson’s breakout season. He started all 16 games, racked up 41 tackles and a team high 13 pass deflections, seventh in the AFC. In 2019, Jackson battled shoulder injuries on and off, but still managed to start 14 games.
While he wasn’t spectacular in 2019, Jackson still sufficed as a starting cornerback with 37 tackles, with pass deflections, and one interception. Heading into a contract year, Jackson is determined to have a season like 2018, and the Bengals are expecting the same.
It would be a shock to see the Bengals move on from William Jackson III if he manages to have another breakout season. Otherwise, he could be on the outs and cash in come March.