Bengals Face Crucial Offseason Decisions as NFL Salary Cap Set to Soar
The NFL just made history - and it’s about to reshape the offseason landscape. According to a league memo reported by NFL Media’s Tom Pelissero, teams were informed that the projected 2024 salary cap will land somewhere between $301.2 million and $305.7 million. That would mark the first time the cap has crossed the $300 million threshold - a milestone that opens up significant financial flexibility for front offices across the league.
But here’s the thing: while most teams are preparing to take full advantage of the added cap room, the Cincinnati Bengals may not be in position to benefit as much - unless they make some key adjustments.
Let’s break it down.
Big Cap, Big Opportunity - But Not for Everyone
The Bengals, like every team, are subject to the same cap ceiling. But not every team enters the offseason in the same position. With major contracts already on the books - most notably Joe Burrow’s megadeal - Cincinnati has less wiggle room than many of its peers.
That means the Bengals' front office won’t be shopping with the same kind of freedom as other teams flush with space. And in a league where smart cap management can be the difference between a deep playoff run and an early exit, that puts added pressure on Cincinnati to adapt - whether that’s through restructures, savvy draft picks, or internal development.
Joe Burrow: Still That Guy
One person who isn’t worried about Burrow’s ability to lead the Bengals forward? Hall of Famer Steve Young.
While speaking at a Pro Bowl event, Young made it clear he’s all-in on the Bengals’ franchise quarterback: “He’s that guy,” Young said, expressing excitement to see Burrow back in action. And for good reason - when healthy, Burrow is one of the most complete quarterbacks in the league. His poise, accuracy, and football IQ are elite traits, and they’re the foundation of Cincinnati’s long-term hopes.
Young also touched on the growing popularity of flag football, especially with stars like Burrow and Joe Mixon participating in the Pro Bowl festivities. “These guys playing it seriously, both Joes, will do a lot for the kids to think about flag,” Young said. It’s a reminder that the game is evolving, and the Bengals have two of its most recognizable faces helping lead that charge.
Coaching Carousel: Quiet Moves, Big Implications
Behind the scenes, Cincinnati appears to be making some subtle but potentially significant coaching changes.
Former assistant quarterbacks coach Fredi Knighten is no longer listed on the team’s official website, signaling a shift in the offensive coaching staff. Whether the Bengals promote from within or bring in a fresh face, any change in the quarterback room is worth watching - especially when you’ve got a generational talent like Burrow to develop and protect.
The Bengals are also reportedly making headlines with a new coaching hire. Davis, the son of former NFL head coach Dirk Koetter, is expected to join the staff.
He most recently served as an analyst at Boise State. While not a household name yet, Davis brings NFL bloodlines and a fresh perspective - something that could prove valuable as the Bengals continue to evolve offensively.
Draft Flashback: Stewart’s Still a Work in Progress
And then there’s Stewart - the Bengals’ first-round pick from last year who came into the league with sky-high expectations. A size-speed marvel, Stewart turned heads at both the Senior Bowl and the NFL Combine, and he looked every bit the part of a future star.
But as Bengals fans know, the transition hasn’t been seamless. While the physical tools are undeniable, consistency has been harder to come by.
That’s not unusual for rookies, especially those adjusting to the speed and complexity of the pro game. Still, with a full offseason under his belt, Stewart will be one of the key players to watch heading into training camp.
The Bottom Line
The NFL’s rising salary cap is going to create a flurry of activity across the league - big signings, aggressive trades, and plenty of roster reshuffling. For the Bengals, though, the path forward might look a little different.
They’ve already made major financial commitments to their core stars. Now it’s about maximizing what they have, getting creative with the cap, and making sure the coaching staff is aligned with the franchise’s long-term vision.
The good news? They’ve got their quarterback.
They’ve got their identity. And with the right moves, they’ve still got a window to contend.
But the margin for error is slimmer than ever.