Why the Bengals’ Stand on Contract Language Couldn’t Come at a Worse Time

Most sports teams claim to care about winning, but often their primary goal is profit. The Cincinnati Bengals, unlike many of their peers, don’t hide their focus on finances. However, this pursuit of money sometimes hinders their on-field success.

Carson Palmer, a former Bengals quarterback, once said, “If the most important thing is the financials and the second-most important thing is winning, then you don’t have a chance.” His words ring true today as the Bengals continue to face contract disputes that affect team performance.

Last season, a contract issue with star receiver Ja’Marr Chase disrupted his preparation. He didn’t know if he’d play until just before the game, leading to a season-opening loss against the struggling New England Patriots.

This year, the Bengals are at it again, wrestling over contracts with players like pass rusher Trey Hendrickson. They also faced an unusual hurdle with rookie edge rusher Shemar Stewart, as they insisted on tweaking standard rookie contract language. A simple adjustment took precedence over getting Stewart prepared for the season.

This stubbornness raises questions. The Bengals have a history of slow starts; they could have made the playoffs last year with just a few more wins. So, why risk hindering team readiness for the sake of contract terms?

Former player Jonathan Joseph once highlighted the team’s old-school culture, where players faced unreasonable conditions. This culture seems to persist, as the Bengals hesitant to grant even small concessions to keep players happy and focused.

In the current climate, many organizations recognize that player morale impacts performance. A recent survey showed that 75% of players believe their mental wellbeing directly affects team success. By prioritizing control over collaboration, the Bengals may be sacrificing potential victories.

It’s puzzling—especially as quarterback Joe Burrow leads the team with impressive skill. If the Bengals don’t adapt their approach, they risk losing top talent in the long run.

Ultimately, this isn’t just a financial or strategic issue. It’s about leadership and finding a balance between control and collaboration. If the Bengals don’t reevaluate their priorities soon, they might face the consequences when it counts the most.



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