The Cincinnati Bengals and Hamilton County are reportedly close to a deal that would secure a 10-year lease with extensions after that term, Chris Roling of Bengals Wire reports.

In a sudden shift in vibes around the standoff regarding the Paycor Stadium lease, the Bengals have announced a willingness to pursue a lease without state funding.

According to James Pilcher of Local 12, the sudden change is in response to the Ohio State budget potentially not being finalized before next month's deadline in lease negotiations:

"Haring confirmed that the Bengals are committing $120 million towards the $830 million renovation cost. The team and county are reportedly close to agreeing on a 10-year lease, with potential extensions for another 10 years."

The Bengals have until the end of June to exercise one of multiple rolling two-year extensions on the lease of Paycor Stadium. Despite national speculation, the team not exercising one of those, then the lease expiring in June of 2026, wasn't realistic.

Don't forget to follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/theredzoneorg 
     
Don't forget to follow us on Bluesky at https://theredzone.bsky.social

Like us on Facebook at http://facebook.com/Theredzone.org