The Cincinnati Bengals have a reputation for knowing how to pinch a penny. Just ask star defensive end Trey Hendrickson, currently embroiled in a contract stalemate with the franchise.
Boomer Esiason, who led the Bengals to an appearance in Super Bowl XXIII, did nothing Friday to change that narrative.
Speaking on his radio show, "Boomer and Gio" on WFAN in New York, the ex-quarterback told co-host Gregg Giannotti about the invitation he received to attend the team's Ring of Honor induction in October.
He was added to the Ring of Honor in 2023, and he said was invited via email. Former Bengals offensive lineman Dave Lapham and cornerback Lemar Parrish make up the Class of 2025 and will be honored when the Bengals play the New York Jets on Oct. 26.
"I don't know how to take this invite, that's the thing," he said on the show.
He shared details of the invitation, which included two free game tickets and the opportunity to buy another one. But that's where the complementary stuff stopped.
"If you are traveling in for the weekend from out of town, we have secured a block of rooms at the Renaissance Hotel at a preferred discounted rate," Esiason read from the invitation. "Rooms are limited, so please book directly for the early and the best rate. We look forward to hosting you in The Jungle for an unforgettable weekend."
Esiason said he thought he would be paying for the flight, too.
Giannotti said that wasn't right for a member of the Ring of Honor to have to pay the tab.
"Your name is on the stadium," Giannotti said.
Later, he added, "I'm sorry, but for an NFL franchise, that's embarrassing."
Esiason didn't say whether he had booked a room to meet the Friday deadline for a discount.
Now 64, he played with the Bengals (1984-92, 1997), Jets (1993-95) and Arizona Cardinals (1996). He said he maybe could turn to one of his other ex-teams for help.
"Maybe I could fly out with the Jets, come back with the Jets," Esiason joked. "Maybe (Jets head coach) Aaron Glenn would let me tag along."
--Field Level Media
