The Cincinnati Bengals secure their future, signing a new lease for Paycor Stadium through 2036. Learn about the massive deal announced on August 1, 2025.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
Who Dey Nation, you can breathe easy. The Cincinnati Bengals aren't going anywhere. In a monumental move for the franchise and the city, the team and Hamilton County officially finalized a new lease agreement on Friday, ensuring the Stripes will continue to roar on the riverfront at Paycor Stadium through at least 2036.
Today's deal embodies a responsible approach for the future, while at the same time keeping Paycor Stadium a great venue that can provide our great fans the great gameday experience they deserve.
After some last-minute negotiations, the ink is dry on a deal that has been months in the making. The new lease is a massive $470 million agreement, with Hamilton County contributing $350 million and the Bengals securing $120 million via the NFL's G-5 loan program. This joint investment not only keeps the team in Cincinnati for another decade-plus but also paves the way for significant stadium improvements. Executive VP Katie Blackburn celebrated the partnership, emphasizing the goal of keeping Paycor a top-tier venue. This stability is a huge win, allowing the front office to keep its eyes on the ultimate prize: a Lombardi trophy.
While the executives were shaking hands, the players were putting in work. The battle for the final 53-man roster is in full swing, particularly in the defensive backfield. Look no further than PJ Jules, who is bracing for another demanding preseason. After spending all of last year with the team, Jules finds himself in a crowded secondary, fighting to prove his value. His situation is a microcosm of the entire camp: intense competition and a deep roster where no spot is guaranteed. These are the tough decisions that will shape the defense we see on the field come September.
Speaking of past players, a familiar face is officially back in the league. Offensive lineman La'el Collins, who started 15 games for the Bengals during their 2022 run, signed with the Dallas Cowboys. Collins, who has been working his way back from a major knee injury, had nothing but praise for his former quarterback, Joe Burrow. 'He's everything that I thought he was... a winner, competitor, tough guy, mentally and physically strong, selfless guy,' Collins said. It's always great to hear that respect for Joey B., and fans will wish Collins well in Dallas.
With the long-term future of the franchise secured in Cincinnati, the focus now shifts squarely to the present. The stability of the stadium deal allows the team to pour all its energy into the on-field product. As training camp battles like the one in the secondary intensify, the shape of the 2025 Bengals is coming into view. The foundation is set, now it's time to build a champion on it.
