T.j. Slaton Jr.

Career StatsD+

Year	Team	GP	Sacks	Tkl	TFL
Career		85	5.0	186	21.5
2025		17	3.0	52	2.5
2024		17	1.0	30	5
2023		17

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

The Bengals just secured an absolute steal with T.J. Slaton Jr.'s $0.8M AAV deal, earning an A+ CVI that represents exceptional value in today's inflated defensive line market. Getting a rotational defensive tackle who can contribute meaningful snaps at under $1M annually is the kind of shrewd roster building that championship teams execute — especially when quality interior depth typically commands $2-4M on the open market. At 26, Slaton is entering his prime years as a run-stuffer who brings size and veteran presence without the injury concerns that often plague older defensive linemen at this pay grade. The minimal financial commitment gives Cincinnati tremendous flexibility to either retain him as affordable depth or flip him if his role expands, with virtually zero dead money risk. This signing exemplifies how smart front offices can find impact players in the bargain bin, giving the Bengals exactly the type of cost-effective defensive depth that allows them to allocate premium dollars to skill positions while maintaining a competitive rotation up front.

Performance Analysis

T.J. Slaton Jr.'s D+ grade in Cincinnati reflects a rotational defensive tackle providing useful depth in the Bengals' interior. Slaton brings the size and anchor needed to hold up against the run, and he's contributed to the defensive line rotation in meaningful ways. His D+ captures a player who does his job without being dominant — the run defense is solid and the pass rush is minimal, which is typical for a nose tackle type. Cincinnati's defensive line benefits from having a big body who can eat space in the middle. Slaton knows his role and executes it consistently. He's a useful rotation piece who helps keep the defensive line fresh.

Current Sentiment

T.J. Slaton Jr. finds himself in a precarious position heading into 2026, with his Contract Value Index (CVI) earning a D- grade that reflects widespread skepticism about his future in Cincinnati. The veteran defensive tackle's modest $0.8M AAV deal appears increasingly overvalued given his underwhelming production over five NFL seasons, particularly his anemic five-sack career total that screams replacement-level impact. Multiple reports have labeled Slaton as a potential cut candidate, suggesting the Bengals are actively shopping for cheaper alternatives at the position rather than committing to his continued development. While he's managed to generate occasional positive buzz during practice sessions, the persistent roster bubble speculation has created a largely pessimistic narrative around his standing within the organization. The combination of below-average production metrics and uncertain contract status has positioned Slaton as expendable depth rather than a foundational piece, with media coverage consistently framing him as a player fighting for his professional survival rather than ascending toward a meaningful role.