Bengals select Michigan DT Kris Jenkins, son of four-time Pro Bowler, with No. 49 pick in 2024 NFL Draft

The Cincinnati Bengals helped fill the D.J. Reader-sized hole on their defensive line in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft.

The Bengals selected Michigan defensive tackle Kris Jenkins with the No. 49 overall pick on Friday night.

After losing Reader to the Lions in free agency, the Bengals have added Sheldon Rankins, Jenkins in the second round, and then continued their fortification of the line with DT McKinnley Jackson at No. 97 overall toward the end of the night. As a run stuffer, Jenkins fits well next to the penetrating Rankins and incumbent DT B.J. Hill.

Jenkins hails from an NFL family, being the son of Kris Jenkins, a four-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle, and the nephew of Cullen Jenkins, a Super Bowl champion defensive end. His father, who was a second-round pick by Carolina in 2001, had a ten-season career in the NFL, playing for the Panthers and Jets.

Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 299 pounds, Jenkins is a robust and swift defender who packs a punch at the point of contact. His quick reaction off the snap and skill in controlling blockers allow him to hold his own against single protection. Jenkins has shown an eagerness to improve, developing additional counter moves such as a powerful spin. Further enhancement in this area will boost his performance as a professional.

Jenkins, a tireless worker characterized by his high effort and industrious energy, has consistently started in all 29 games over the last two seasons, frequently playing despite injuries.

The primary criticism of him as he enters the NFL is his underwhelming backfield penetration during his time at Michigan, ending his career with a total of 4.5 sacks. His frame size is not ideal, which might prevent him from ever becoming an All-Pro. However, Jenkins displayed his best performances in his last two games at Michigan against Alabama and Washington during the College Football Playoff. These games showcased his potential to be an effective starter in the professional league. He could be a valuable addition to the Bengals, contributing rotationally right from the start.

If Cincy is fortunate, Jenkins will emulate his father’s decade-long professional career.