football

Joe Burrow’s contract could be the Bengals’ next logical move

Yahoo Sports

Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images Joe Burrow’s restructured contract could give the Cincinnati Bengals the financial flexibility they need to strengthen their linebacker unit. They could then turn their attention to investing in more young talent by signing mid-tier free agents or focusing on player development. Either way, any changes to Burrow’s deal should be followed by a clear plan for using the additional resources.

Until then, even with more cap room, it’s too early to predict how it might shape their offseason. Burrow restructure is the easiest way to open cap room Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images The Bengals have already been more aggressive this offseason than in the past, which makes Duke Tobin’s comments on a potential Joe Burrow contract restructure even more noteworthy.

Tobin didn’t rule it out. He mentioned the team is looking at those options post-draft and admitted that some of their recent signings have added financial pressure. That’s an important distinction.

Cincinnati typically avoids contract restructures unless absolutely necessary. They like to keep their finances straightforward, maintaining cap flexibility without pushing costs into future years. But this offseason has already seen them move beyond what used to be their usual limits.

Dexter Lawrence was the turning point The Bengals made a major statement when they traded the 10th pick for Dexter Lawrence II, opting for a proven All-Pro over the uncertainty of a rookie. They needed an impact player right away, and Lawrence fits that bill. That trade put the rest of their offseason into context.

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