Cincinnati Bengals DC Al Golden Has Surprise Pick For Training Camp MVP

When Cincinnati Bengals defensive coordinator Al Golden was asked to identify the standout performer of training camp, his answer caught many by surprise. Instead of naming a high-profile veteran or a flashy first-round pick, Golden pointed to second-year defensive tackle Kris Jenkins Jr., declaring that he “arguably has had the best camp of anybody.”

For a defense that struggled mightily in 2024, Golden’s endorsement of Jenkins represents more than just praise for individual improvement—it signals hope for a unit that desperately needs playmakers to emerge from within.

Cincinnati Bengals Al Golden Loves Kris Jenkins Jr.

Jenkins’ rise comes after a disappointing rookie campaign that left many questioning whether the 49th overall pick from Michigan could live up to expectations. Al Golden’s recent comments shed light on why Jenkins struggled in his first season and what has changed heading into 2025.

“He missed a lot of camp with an arm issue, and he was behind from the get-go,” Golden explained during a recent media session. “I don’t think he was either 100 percent, nor was he happy with the way it went for him. And he’s worked really hard to remedy that, and really take his game to the next level.”

The injury context provides a crucial perspective on Jenkins’ rookie struggles. Missing significant practice time as a first-year player is challenging enough, but doing so while dealing with an arm injury that likely affected his ability to engage blockers made his situation even more difficult. The fact that Golden specifically mentions Jenkins wasn’t “100 percent” suggests the injury had lingering effects throughout his debut season.

Golden’s Vision for Jenkins

What makes Golden’s praise particularly noteworthy is his emphasis on Jenkins’ versatility and improved pass-rushing ability. The defensive coordinator highlighted how Jenkins has evolved beyond his expected role, becoming “a better pass-rusher on early downs” while maintaining his strength as a run defender.

“He’s strong. He brings energy,” Golden noted. “We’re giving him the freedom to do that.”

This freedom to rush the passer on early downs represents a significant development in Jenkins’ game. Most defensive tackles are primarily tasked with stopping the run and occupying blockers, but Golden’s comments suggest Jenkins has shown enough pass-rushing ability to warrant expanded responsibilities. For a Bengals defense that ranked near the bottom of the league in several key categories last season, having an interior defensive lineman who can create pressure is invaluable.

The Pedigree Factor

Jenkins’ improvement shouldn’t come as a complete surprise given his background. His father, Kris Jenkins Sr., was a four-time Pro Bowler and two-time first-team All-Pro defensive tackle who played 11 seasons in the NFL. That kind of pedigree, combined with Jenkins Jr.’s decorated college career at Michigan under Jim Harbaugh, suggests the physical tools and football intelligence were always there.

The younger Jenkins also brings legitimate athleticism to the position. At 6-foot-3 and 305 pounds, he possesses the size to handle NFL offensive linemen while maintaining enough agility to be effective as a pass rusher. His college production at Michigan, where he was a key contributor to a successful program, demonstrated his ability to perform at a high level when healthy and properly developed.

Impact on the Cincinnati Bengals Defense

Jenkins’ emergence couldn’t come at a better time for Cincinnati’s defense. The unit struggled significantly in 2024, and the addition of a reliable interior pass rusher would address multiple concerns. Currently, veteran BJ Hill carries much of the load on the defensive line, but his effectiveness diminishes when he’s asked to play too many snaps.

Having Jenkins step up as a legitimate contributor would allow Hill to stay fresher throughout games and potentially be more effective in crucial situations. As Golden’s comments suggest, the Bengals were “terrified” whenever Hill left the field last season, knowing the drop-off in production was significant.

The signing of free agent TJ Slaton as a run-stopping specialist provides another piece of the puzzle. With Slaton handling early-down run defense duties and Jenkins developing as a pass rusher, the Bengals could finally have the interior line depth they’ve been lacking.

Looking Ahead to 2025

Al Golden’s enthusiasm for Jenkins extends beyond just individual development. The defensive coordinator’s comments suggest he sees Jenkins as a player who can raise the ceiling of the entire defensive line unit. The 23-year-old’s combination of physical tools, improved technique, and renewed confidence could make him a key factor in the Bengals’ defensive turnaround.

The timing is particularly crucial given the Bengals’ championship aspirations. With Joe Burrow leading one of the NFL’s most explosive offenses, the team needs its defense to make significant improvements to compete with the league’s elite teams. Jenkins’ development represents the kind of internal growth that can transform a unit without requiring major external investments.

The Broader Context

Jenkins’ emergence also reflects well on the Bengals’ drafting and development strategies. While not every draft pick immediately contributes, Jenkins’ trajectory shows the importance of patience and proper development, especially for players dealing with injuries early in their careers.

His success could also provide a template for other young players on the roster. The Bengals have invested in several developmental prospects in recent drafts, including first-round pick Shemar Stewart and linebackers Demetrius Knight Jr. and Barrett Carter. Jenkins’ transformation from disappointing rookie to training camp standout demonstrates what’s possible with dedication and proper coaching.

The Golden Effect

Al Golden’s impact on the Cincinnati Bengals’ defense extends beyond just scheme changes. His ability to identify and develop talent like Jenkins suggests the defensive coordinator brings more than just strategic knowledge to Cincinnati. His enthusiasm and communication style appear to be connecting with players, creating an environment where improvements like Jenkins’ can flourish.

Golden’s willingness to give Jenkins “freedom” to rush the passer on early downs also indicates a coordinator who adapts his system to his players’ strengths rather than forcing square pegs into round holes. This flexibility could be crucial as the Bengals work to maximize their defensive potential.

As the 2025 season approaches, Jenkins’ development represents one of the most encouraging storylines for Cincinnati’s defense. If Golden’s assessment proves accurate, the Bengals may have found an unexpected game-changer in their second-year defensive tackle—exactly the kind of internal improvement they need to complement their championship-caliber offense.