The Cincinnati Bengals‘ focus right now is on winning the Super Bowl and bringing the Lombardi Trophy to Ohio.
But in less than a month, the big story in Cincinnati is going to flip from the postseason to quarterback Joe Burrow’s looming contract extension.
Burrow, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, will be eligible for an extension this offseason for the first time in his pro career.
And based on what he’s done since entering the NFL, that extension won’t be cheap.
On Saturday, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport offered an update on the Bengals’ plans for Burrow this offseason.
“[Joe Burrow] made just $5.5 million in cash this year,” said Rapoport on Saturday. “One of the best bargains in the NFL. Expect that to change. My understanding is the Cincinnati Bengals are targeting this offseason for a big-time, big-money extension for Joe Burrow.”
From @NFLGameDay: #Bengals QB Joe Burrow has been one of the best bargains in the NFL, like all stars on rookie contracts. The organization plans to change that this offseason. pic.twitter.com/4qPIcbOBRb
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 21, 2023
“He’s eligible after three years. Obviously, [the Bengals are] going to give him the fifth-year option, but attempt to work out a deal from there with his agent, Brian Ayrault. They’ve also done some things to augment their cash as an organization, getting a naming rights deal for their stadium and other things. This is a Cincinnati organization that spent a lot in free agency over the last couple of years and expect them to spend a lot on their quarterback this offseason.”
The Bengals are obviously going to pay Burrow whatever it takes to keep him in Cincinnati. And considering he’s made it clear he wants to stay in Cincy, it’s inevitable that a deal will get done. The big question is how much will the deal be worth.
It’s important to keep in mind that the Bengals also have to extend wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase (likely after the 2023 season when he’s first eligible).
These two looming mega extensions are one of the reasons why it’s so unlikely that we see safety Jessie Bates in a Bengals uniform next season. There could be some other key personnel decisions made to accommodate Burrow’s soon-to-be expensive salary.
While we don’t know exactly what Burrow’s extension will like, we know it’s sure to have some ripple effects on Cincinnati’s roster.
