Cincinnati is rolling into another NFL season, and yeah, everyone’s laser-focused on keeping Joe Burrow healthy for that deep playoff run. But hold up, there’s a low-key contract drama already brewing that could be a huge headache down the road: cornerback DJ Turner.
The DJ Turner Dilemma Is Already Here
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler just dropped a piece highlighting players to watch for next offseason if they don’t get extensions done, and guess who’s front and center for the Bengals? Our guy, DJ Turner. Fowler calls him an “underrated cover man out of the AFC North.” And get this: his deal has “virtually no chance” of getting signed before Week 1. Seriously? It’s “not close,” and he’s “poised to play out his rookie deal.” You gotta wonder, why isn’t this getting done? This isn’t some back-burner issue; this is a starting corner, an impact player on your defense. Watching a guy play out his rookie deal without a long-term agreement in sight? That’s a red flag waving already, and the season hasn’t even fully kicked off.
Been There, Tagged That: The Bengals’ History Lesson
So, if a deal ain’t happening, what’s the Bengals’ move? Fowler thinks they’ll probably pull out the franchise tag, just like they did with another star defensive back, Jessie Bates III, back in 2022. Remember that mess? Bates had to play on the tag, then bounced in free agency for a four-year deal with the Atlanta Falcons. If that’s the blueprint, Turner’s walking into a similar situation. Fowler’s take? If Turner hits free agency, he’s “in line for a large payday.” No surprise there, right? Good cover guys get paid. But “more than anything,” Fowler believes that franchise tag “could really happen.” This isn’t just speculation; it’s a very real possibility the team has already shown it’s willing to use. For Bengals fans, it’s gotta feel like Groundhog Day. You’ve got an important defensive piece, and instead of a long-term solution, it looks like a one-year band-aid followed by potentially losing him for nothing or paying through the nose.
As the season gets going, keep your eyes glued to Turner’s performance. Every big play, every shutdown coverage, every forced incompletion is only going to drive up his price tag and solidify Fowler’s prediction. The Bengals are aiming for the top, but they’re already facing a massive decision with a key player. This isn’t just about winning games now, it’s about keeping their core intact for the future. Can they avoid a repeat of the Bates saga, or is the franchise tag already a forgone conclusion? It’s going to be a fascinating storyline to track all year long.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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