Not Only Joe Burrow, Bengals to Pour Money Into Another Part of Organization Before 2023 Kickoff

It is perhaps the best time to be a Bengal fan. For a team that has been to the Super Bowl only three times, they have given memorable performances in the last two seasons. They were the runners-up in Super Bowl LVI, then finished runners-up in the AFC Championship in the next season. As a result, the franchise has decided to pour money into the team and other departments to engage fans even more.

They have budgeting issues with star performer Joe Burrow (his new contract is still not finalized) along with Higgins and Chase. Some pay cuts have been made by releasing players or cutting their pay. But this is not the only area of concern for Mike Brown, as another department requires more funds before the new season kicks off.

Paycor Stadium to receive basic upgrades

The Bengals were rated poorly by NFLPA’s survey last year. They ranked 27th among the 32 teams surveyed. For a top side like the Bengals, it was a disgrace. So, Mike Brown requested a fund of $493 million from Hamilton County, citing infrastructural development. The stadium has not been renovated since it came into being in 2000.

Speaking to WLWT, Caroline Blackburn (senior manager of digital strategy) stated that “We’re top five right now, but we’re competitive. “We want to be number one.” Director of content Seth Tanner said “My favorite item off that is that we are number one pregame entertainment. So from the twenty minutes until kickoff, we are the best show out there in the league according to the people that come inside of this building.“

Well, the words of the two executives indicate that Mike Brown and his team want to give the best to their fans. It includes new digital scoreboards, video boards across upper and lower stadium bowls, and upgraded concession stands. The other upgrades include nursing facilities for fans and space for families. A $20 million budget is proposed for the facilities. But this is not the only issue they have on their hands.

Joe Burrow in contract extension talks

In 2020, Joe Burrow, the Cincinnati Bengals’ quarterback, inked a contract as the top pick in the NFL Draft. The deal, valued at $36.1 million over four years, featured an approximate $23.9 million signing bonus. Mike Brown did not hesitate to exercise the 5th year rookie option on his contract. But with a salary cap of $224.8 million and contracts of Chase and Higgins impending, the Bengals might compromise on Burrow’s salary. Burrow understands the dilemma and has acknowledged the same.

Read more: “I Can Promise You..”: Joe Burrow Certain to Wear the Crown as Bengals QB1 Gets Ready to Enter the NFL’s History Books

Paycor stadium is leased to the Bengals, and the lease will expire in 2026. As of now, the upgrades will be available before the opener against the Ravens. There is an additional $200 million budget that has been proposed for future projects like luxury lounges and high-end food or drink services. So, Bengals fans can hope for a good game with a good ambiance. 

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