While A.J. Green figures to eventually enter negotiations with the Bengals on a long-term deal, the fifth-year option for first-round picks ensures that it isn’t necessarily an immediate concern for the club. Having exercised Green’s option earlier this offseason, the Bengals locked up the star wideout through the 2015 season, meaning extension discussions may not heat up for another year or more.
As Geoff Hobson of Bengals.com details, Green acknowledged that the potential wait won’t bother him, and the receiver also discussed a potential extension for the guy throwing him the football, quarterback Andy Dalton. Here are the notable quotes from Green:
On Dalton and a possible new contract for the QB:
“We came in together. That’s my guy. He helped me where I am. I helped him and we took the Bengals to a different level. The Bengals were losing a lot before we came. I feel like we turned it around. … I know they know he’s the guy…I feel like they’re going to get something done before the season starts.”
On Dalton’s regular-season success and lack thereof in the postseason:
“A lot of people give him crap about not winning a playoff game, but we’ve made the playoffs the last three seasons. We’ve won 10 or more games (twice). Playoff games…we’re still young. I feel like we’re going to win them, it just takes time.”
On Green’s own contract:
“I think I’m on the backburner just because of the option. That’s fine with me. I don’t even look at it like that. I just go out there and play and my time will come. … It’s not surprising. Teams always want to wait. I’m fine with my option and my $10MM. I’ll take it.”
I hope this guy is a Bengal for life. He’s tremendous talent and seems like a great teammate. Always says and does the right things.