The Cincinnati Bengals have released veteran quarterback Andy Dalton, the team announced Thursday.
“Andy will always hold a special place with this franchise, and I know that he holds a special place in my heart,” team president Mike Brown said in a statement. “This is a hard day for our club because we know and appreciate what a consummate professional Andy has always been. We respect and appreciate Andy, and we thank him.”
With Dalton’s release, the Bengals will have $17.7 million in salary cap space.
The 32-year-old has played all nine seasons of his career with the Bengals. He was drafted by Cincinnati in the second round of the 2011 NFL Draft.
Dalton is also one of 10 quarterbacks in NFL history to have thrown over 3,000 yards in each of his first three seasons.
Last season, Dalton threw for 3,494 yards, 16 touchdowns and 14 interceptions in 13 games.
“Andy will always be considered a key member of the Bengals’ organization,” Bengals head coach Zac Taylor said in a statement. “His teammates and coaches appreciate his leadership and his commitment to winning. Just as importantly, Andy and his wife JJ are leaving a lasting impact in the community with the incredible work their foundation has done over the years. Andy and his family have meant a lot to this team and this city, and we wish them the best in the future.”
The Bengals selected LSU quarterback Joe Burrow as the No. 1 pick in the 2020 NFL Draft last week. In a recent RapSheet + Friends podcast, Burrow said Dalton called to welcome him to Cincinnati.
Now Dalton joins a free agent market that also includes veteran quarterbacks Cam Newton and Joe Flacco.
