Bengals pick Texas A&M DT McKinnley Jackson at No. 97 of NFL draft 2024

The Cincinnati Bengals selected defensive tackle McKinnley Jackson out of Texas A&M with the 97th pick of the 2024 NFL draft. Jackson, a 6-foot-2, 325 pound prospect was picked by Cincinnati late in Round 3 and adds defensive tackle depth.

With the selection of Jackson, the Bengals continue to fortify the interior of their defensive line. Jackson logged three sacks, 5.5 tackles for loss and a forced fumble in his final season with the Aggies. His performance in 2023 earned him an invite to the Senior Bowl where the Bengals' front office watched him play in person.

When DJ Reader left in free agency, the Bengals needed to fill their hole at nose tackle. Jenkins is now the Bengals' true nose tackle and will serve an important role in Cincinnati's run defense. Defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo says he is a true "two-down nose tackle" and that's where he'll be featured most. The additions of defensive tackle Kris Jenkins in the second round and Jackson in the third round give Anarumo options at an incredibly important position.

"We really added some depth to that room which we needed," Anarumo said late Friday night. "Feel good about both players. Both have different skill sets, but they fit us very well."

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Bengals pick DT McKinnley Jackson in Round 3 of NFL draft