Full Breakdown
Bengals Decline Fifth-Year Option on DE Myles Murphy
5/1/2026, 12:58:58 AM
Core Event
On Thursday, the Cincinnati Bengals announced they will not exercise Myles Murphy’s fifth-year option, which would have paid $14,475,000 (reported as $14.5 million) in 2027. The decision makes Murphy a free agent after the 2026 season unless a new contract is reached.
Background & Context
The move follows an offseason in which Cincinnati signed All-Pro DT Dexter Lawrence, DE Boye Mafe, DT Jonathan Allen and CB Bryan Cook, after already securing offensive players on long-term contracts. The team has exercised fifth-year options on its last four first-round picks—Jonah Williams (2019), Joe Burrow (2020), Ja’Marr Chase (2021) and Dax Hill (2022)—but chose flexibility over the $14 million option for Murphy.
Data & Statistics
In 2025 Murphy recorded a career-high 5.5 sacks, 41 pressures and 31 hurries. His first two seasons produced three sacks and seven quarterback hits. Across three seasons he totals 92 tackles, 10 tackles for loss and 8.5 sacks. For 2026 his base salary is $2,466,445 with a $4,005,038 cap hit. The Bengals have posted a 24-27 record over the past three seasons and missed the playoffs each year.
Official Statements & Responses
Director of player personnel Duke Tobin said the decision is “primarily a financial one,” noting the organization still believes in Murphy and hopes to negotiate a long-term deal. Head coach Zac Taylor highlighted the influx of defensive talent and the team’s aim to field players who can compete immediately, framing the contract choice within a broader roster strategy.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics view the $14.5 million option as a high price for a player whose early production was inconsistent with first-round expectations, especially given recent $14 million defensive extensions that already strain the cap.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
The option amount is cited as $14,475,000 in one source and $14.5 million in another, a minor discrepancy. No details have been released about the timing or terms of any prospective extension, leaving Murphy’s status beyond 2026 uncertain.
Verbatim Quotes
- "He's a 24-year-old guy that's just starting to scratch the surface." — Duke Tobin, Director of Player Personnel, Cincinnati Bengals
- "I was pleased with his progression last year and how he took ownership of the starting role and how he grew throughout the season." — Duke Tobin, Director of Player Personnel, Cincinnati Bengals
- “I think all of them can come in and compete for opportunities to get on the field,” — Zac Taylor, Head Coach, Cincinnati Bengals
- “We’re looking to draft guys that we envision have an opportunity to come in here and compete.” — Zac Taylor, Head Coach, Cincinnati Bengals
What's Next
The Bengals will start the 2026 season with Murphy under his current contract while continuing negotiations. The team’s cap management and defensive roster changes will shape any long-term agreement before the next free-agency window.
