The Cincinnati Bengals sent out a statement alongside the news star wideout A.J. Green signed his franchise tender.
And it came right from the top of the organization via Bengals executive vice president Katie Blackburn.
“From the day that he joined our organization nine years ago, A.J. Green has been an outstanding player and a class act. We are pleased that he will be part of the team this year, starting with the first practice. By signing, A.J. puts himself and the team in the best position to have a great season together, and we look forward to the opportunity at the end of the season to discuss keeping him here long-term. He has been an integral part of our team, and we expect this year that he will be the same impact player he has always been.”
This is pretty important — Blackburn’s name isn’t often attached to team statements. She happens to also be the person right at the forefront of negotiations on any big deal the team does.
Translation: The Bengals aren’t joking about wanting Green back for the long-term.
Every person interviewed from the organization over the past two years or more has made it clear they want to lock up Green on a big extension, not a one-year pact like a tag. But Green’s problems with injuries lately combined with the restrictive nature of this offseason meant a one-year tag was the best way to go for all parties.
If Green can stay on the field, it’s hard to imagine he won’t return to his usual form — and especially so with a talent like Joe Burrow under center. The two parties can talk about an extension again after the season.
