This week, a report effectively said that the Cincinnati Bengals and DJ Turner won’t find common ground on a contract extension before Week 1.
Not much of a shocker there. Coming off a big season, Turner surely wants a big-money new deal. The Bengals probably want to get him one, but have a fickle cap to balance after an all-in offseason and probably wouldn’t mind seeing Turner do it again in 2026.
Turner, who didn’t cause any distractions about the contract situation this offseason, is clearly just taking things in stride.
The Bengals star told reporters that he’s going to be himself on the field no matter what happens, as captured by Mike Petraglia of CLNS Media:
DJ Turner on @JFowlerESPN report that barring an unexpected breakthrough, Bengals
expected to let him play out his contract “My mindset is gonna be the same regardless. If I’m the highest paid, or I don't have a contract. It don't really matter.” pic.twitter.com/JD1Bk3GqYB
— Mike Petraglia (@Trags) September 3, 2026
It’s tough to project where the Bengals and Turner might want to land on a new deal. Turner played like a top corner last year, whether those heights continue is something the front office probably wants to watch.
For what it’s worth, Spotrac has Turner at a “market value” of about $21.1 million average annual salary. That takes into account his age, performance and other factors while comparing top cornerback contracts.
Given how things sound right now, the more likely outcome feels like a possible franchise tag situation next offseason. But barring a stunner, it doesn’t appear set to derail the Bengals’ outlook on the rebuilding defense.
This article originally appeared on Bengals Wire: Bengals' DJ Turner gets honest after contract extension report
