Zac Taylor sends message to Logan Wilson following trade to Cowboys

Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor had a message for linebacker Logan Wilson following his trade to the Dallas Cowboys prior to the NFL trade deadline.

Wilson was drafted by the Bengals in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft, and he’s played the entirety of his career up to this point with the Bengals. He was Cincinnati’s longest-tenured defensive player.

Taylor was appreciative of Wilson’s contributions over the past half-decade, and he wished the Wyoming product the best moving forward.

"I appreciate everything Logan has done as a player and as a person during his time in Cincinnati," Taylor said in a statement. "He has been a central part of our defense over the past six years, and he will be remembered as a leader in our locker room. I wish him the best moving forward."

Despite his long tenure with the Bengals, Wilson likely won’t be too upset about relocating from Cincinnati. He requested a trade away from the Bengals last month, and now his wish has been granted. Even after his request though, he remained professional and continued to help the younger players on the defensive side of the ball. Overall, Taylor was impressed with how Wilson handled the situation.

"Just keep focused on being here and helping us as best you can," Taylor said to Wilson following his trade request, via Sports Illustrated. "I know it's frustrating with the role, but he's handled it really well.

"He's done a great job with the young linebackers. He's continued to be in a leadership role in our team. I know that this situation can be difficult and challenging. Just keep focused on being here and working for us and finding ways to win."

Trade requests have become commonplace in Cincinnati. Last year, star wide receiver Tee Higgins and star defensive end Trey Hendrickson both requested trades. Neither request was granted. Earlier this year, linebacker Germaine Pratt also requested a trade. He was eventually released by the Bengals. Last week, defensive tackle McKinnley Jackson asked to be moved.

It’s usually not a great sign for an organization when players keep consistently requesting trades, especially players the caliber of Higgins and Hendrickson. The product on the field hasn’t been great for the Bengals lately, but it’s clear that things aren’t super smooth off the field, either. Moving forward, the organization clearly has some things it needs to figure out.