Bengals Face Roster Dilemma as Burrow Pushes for Key Players
The Cincinnati Bengals are under pressure from all directions, with quarterback Joe Burrow leading the charge.
In a recent podcast interview, Burrow openly discussed his willingness to restructure his contract and his understanding of salary cap management—all while urging the Bengals to retain key players. The names at the center of this conversation? Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, Trey Hendrickson, and Mike Gesicki.
Burrow isn’t the only one concerned. Fans are echoing his sentiments, and insiders across the league are skeptical about Cincinnati’s ability to keep its core intact.
According to Jason La Canfora of The Washington Post, several anonymous NFL executives believe Burrow won’t be pleased with the eventual outcome:
“Burrow is going to be pissed,” one general manager predicted. “No way they are keeping more than two of those four.”
The challenge is particularly steep with Higgins, who is projected to command at least $30 million per season on the open market. While the Bengals could use a second franchise tag to retain him, it’s unclear if he’s willing to stay under those terms.
Hendrickson, meanwhile, is in a contract standoff, making it clear he expects an extension or a trade. Chase’s extension seems inevitable, assuming the team can work out the financial details. Gesicki, who has benefited from playing with Burrow, could also be in line for a significant payday.
Keeping all four players is theoretically possible, but it would require sacrifices from the players involved and a shift in Cincinnati’s usual contract strategy. Whether the Bengals are willing to step outside their comfort zone to satisfy their franchise quarterback remains the big question.
