Patrick Mahomes just handed the Cincinnati Bengals a financial lifeline. The Chiefs' quarterback restructured his deal to create massive cap space. Now, Joe Burrow could follow the same blueprint to help Cincinnati reload its roster.

Just as the Chiefs turned a major chunk of Mahomes' salary into a roster bonus, the Bengals are looking to restructure Burrow's contract.

Back in September 2023, Burrow signed an extension worth 5 years for $275 million with a $40 million signing bonus and $219 million guaranteed. As of now, his cap hit for the 2026 season is expected to climb to a significant $47.99 million, which could influence the team’s financial planning ahead.

The Bengals are expected to drop it to $ 28.7 million, with $54.6 million in free cap space. However, after releasing the restructuring, the number can rise well over $60 million.

It's not surprising to see Burrow willing to make some changes to the contract. Last year, when the Bengals were in a similar situation, we heard Burrow be willing to do so. He said, "Yeah, I do I do."

And if the deal goes through, it will be crucial for the Bengals, who need reinforcements.

The Bengals Enter the Trade Market

With Trey Hendrickson looking set to leave the team before the 2026 season, the Cincinnati Bengals need serious defensive reinforcements. However, Packers defensive end Rashan Gary could be the perfect replacement for Hendrickson.

Gary had 7.5 sacks this season, and in the last three years, Gary managed to cross the same number and had 45 or more tackles during the same time.

This newfound cap space would allow the Bengals to target recruits through the draft and trades to build a playoff-ready squad.

Written by

Shreya Mishra

Edited by

Siddharth Shirwadkar