AFC North Notebook: Bengals Look to Reload, Browns Shut Down Watson, and Ravens Face Big Questions with Lamar
With just two games left in the regular season, the AFC North is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing divisions heading into the offseason - not just for what’s happening on the field, but for the looming decisions off of it. From Cincinnati’s belief in a quick rebound to Cleveland’s long-term view on Deshaun Watson, and Baltimore’s high-stakes situation with Lamar Jackson, there’s no shortage of storylines to track.
Bengals: Zac Taylor Believes the Super Bowl Window Is Still Open
At 5-10, this season has been anything but what the Bengals envisioned. Injuries, inconsistency, and a tough schedule have derailed a team that had legitimate championship aspirations. But head coach Zac Taylor isn’t shying away from the expectations - in fact, he’s leaning into them.
“We know we can get back to that very quickly,” Taylor said, referring to the team’s previous Super Bowl run. “This was a down year for us, a disappointing year, but that doesn’t mean we’re not ready to reload.”
Taylor’s confidence isn’t just coach-speak. The core of this Bengals team - including Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, and a defense that has shown flashes - remains intact. The belief is that with a healthy roster and a full offseason, Cincinnati can re-enter the conversation as a legitimate contender in the AFC.
And speaking of Burrow, Taylor had nothing but praise for his franchise quarterback, who’s been visibly frustrated throughout the season. According to Taylor, Burrow’s leadership hasn’t wavered, even as the team has struggled.
“He’s very thoughtful with his responses,” Taylor said. “He’s helped us lead a championship offense here, and we’re going to get back to that very quickly.”
As for whether Burrow might be shut down for the final stretch - a move some teams might make with a lost season - Taylor made it clear: that’s not on the table.
“He wants to play,” Taylor said. “He missed a big chunk this season. He wants to go out there and play, and we want to go out there and win.”
That’s the kind of mentality you want from your QB1 - even in a season that didn’t go as planned. The Bengals may be out of the playoff race, but they’re not mailing it in. And that speaks volumes about the culture Taylor and Burrow have built.
Browns: Deshaun Watson Shut Down for the Year, But Stefanski Praises His Progress
Over in Cleveland, the Browns have made it official: Deshaun Watson won’t be returning to the field this season. The quarterback, who tore his Achilles earlier in the year, will remain on the Physically Unable to Perform list through the end of the campaign.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski called it the “right decision” for both Watson and the team, emphasizing the long-term picture over any short-term gains.
“He’s done a great job with everything that’s been asked of him,” Stefanski said. “Whether it’s in the training room, by himself, or on the practice field - he’s worked hard.”
This move isn’t surprising. With the playoffs already in view and Watson’s health a top priority, the Browns are playing the long game. Stefanski made it clear that Watson’s focus now shifts to continuing his rehab and preparing for next season.
Meanwhile, cornerback Denzel Ward, who’s been dealing with a calf injury, revealed he felt ready to go in Week 16 but was advised to rest. The expectation is he’ll be back on the field for Week 17 - a significant boost for a Cleveland defense that’s been one of the league’s best when healthy.
Ravens: Lamar Jackson’s Contract Situation Looms Large
In Baltimore, the Ravens are flying high on the field - but there’s turbulence ahead. Lamar Jackson’s contract situation is once again a major storyline heading into the offseason. While he’s under contract, the final two years of his deal carry massive cap hits - nearly $75 million combined - and no more guaranteed money.
That’s a recipe for renewed negotiations, and both sides have reasons to come back to the table. But if last time was any indication, this won’t be a simple process.
There’s been no reported progress in talks, and while the Ravens and Jackson have kept communication open, the dynamic remains delicate. Internally, there’s a belief that Jackson could do more to extend his career - things like improving sleep habits and being more involved in the offseason program.
It’s a tricky balance. Jackson is a uniquely gifted quarterback who plays with a style that invites more contact than most. And while some of his injury issues are just part of the game, the Ravens are walking a fine line between supporting their star and wanting more from him in terms of preparation and durability.
There’s also a human element to consider. Jackson, by all accounts, isn’t combative - but he can become withdrawn when he feels criticized. That’s led to a dynamic where head coach John Harbaugh has often had to go the extra mile to keep Jackson motivated and engaged.
If the Ravens do decide to explore a trade - and that’s still a big “if” - Jackson reportedly has preferences. He’d love to play for the Dolphins, his hometown team, or the Raiders, where Tom Brady is a minority owner. But that’s all hypothetical for now.
What’s not hypothetical is the challenge ahead for Baltimore. They’re contenders now, and Jackson is a big reason why. But if they don’t find a way to navigate this contract situation carefully, they could be facing a franchise-altering decision sooner than later.
Final Word
The AFC North is a division built on tough defenses, talented quarterbacks, and high expectations. And as we approach the end of the regular season, each team faces a pivotal moment - whether it’s Cincinnati trying to bounce back, Cleveland managing a long-term investment, or Baltimore weighing the future of their franchise quarterback.
The games may be winding down, but the real drama is just getting started.