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The Cincinnati Bengals just took Joe Burrow with the No. 1 pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, putting Andy Dalton's future with the team in further doubt. According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Cincinnati has released Dalton on Thursday morning.
Bengals are releasing QB Andy Dalton, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 30, 2020
Since being drafted with the No. 35 pick in the 2011 NFL Draft, Dalton has been the starting quarterback for the Bengals. However, with the team entering their second season with Zac Taylor, it was time for the franchise to move on from Dalton.
Earlier in his career, Dalton was able to help Cincinnati advance to the postseason in his first four seasons. Unfortunately for Dalton, the 2014 season would be the last time he experienced playoff football with the Bengals.
In his final season in Cincinnati, Dalton managed to throw for 3,494 yards, 16 touchdowns, and 14 interceptions. While Dalton struggled in 2019, the Bengals knew they were going to have a chance to select a quarterback in the 2020 NFL Draft.
Even ahead of last year's trade deadline, there were rumors that Dalton could be moved elsewhere. But after failing to find a trade partner this offseason, the Bengals are deciding to release the veteran signal-caller. By releasing Dalton, the Bengals are freeing up $17.7 million off of their salary cap, per Schefter.
And just like that, with the release of Andy Dalton, $17.7 million comes off the Bengals’ salary cap. https://t.co/oQ69H6Uyou
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 30, 2020
For over a year now, it's been suspected that Dalton's days in Cincinnati were numbered. Although that may be true, his release definitely comes at an awkward time. Just a few days ago, Dalton was one of the first players to welcome Burrow to the Bengals. Now, less than a week later, Dalton won't get a chance to spend any time working with Burrow.
