CINCINNATI Bengals Mike Brown, team president, knows the importance of a huge contract negotiation and the potential salary for quarterback Joe Burrow The future is now.
Brown, who spoke at the team’s annual media luncheon Monday, said that he does not know how things will play out once Burrow has been granted an extension. Brown is optimistic about Burrow’s status as the franchise quarterback.
Brown stated, “I can assure you that Joe Burrow is the best,” “He’s everything that you would want for a Cincinnati quarterback. “Keeping him here is our main focus.”
Burrow was the 2020 top overall draft pick and he overcame a serious left knee injury that he sustained in his rookie season to help the Bengals reach their first Super Bowl appearance for 33 years.
He completed 70% of his passes, which netted him 4,611 yards, 34 touchdowns, and 14 interceptions.
Burrow enters the third year on his rookie contract, which averages $9.9million annually, according to Roster Management System. Seven quarterbacks earn more than $40million a year. These players also earned an average of $141.9 million in guaranteed cash.
Burrow, when Burrow was asked about recent deals made to him, stated that “it’s crazy the amount these guys are putting out and I think it is well deserved.” Green Bay‘s Aaron Rodgers Cleveland‘s Deshaun Watson. “All those guys play at the top of his game. They are being paid accordingly. But, it’s really not something that I am thinking about right now.”
Burrow’s status in the league as a former first round draft pick means that the team can extend Burrow’s rookie deal for an additional year. Burrow, along with the rest of the 2020 draft class, will be eligible for extensions after this year.
Brown stated, “This is a puzzle.” It doesn’t all fit together perfectly. There are some positives. We are going to sign some key players for the team. We’re also going to lose some of our key players.”
Jessie Bates (Bengals safety) is at high risk of leaving. Bates and the team have failed to reach an agreement on a long-term extension for the second year in a row. Bates was awarded the franchise tag by coach Zac Taylor in March. However, he has not yet signed his tender and is not available for training camp.
Burrow’s contract won’t be the only one up for debate prior to 2023. Wide receiver Tee Higgins Also, will be extend eligible and wide receiver Ja’Marr ChaseThe reigning NFL Offensive Rookie-of-the Year can begin contract negotiations in 2024.
Brown and Cincinnati’s front offices know that they must account for Chase, Higgins and other team-friendly members.
However, there is no question about the primary objective of the team for long-term business success.
Brown stated, “Right now our obvious, most urgent issue will be our quarterback.” “It’s still not ready or ripe but it’s coming down the track. We see it coming.”