Bengals, County Reach Tentative $185M Stadium Deal

Hamilton County and the Cincinnati Bengals have reached a tentative agreement to spend $185 million on the first phase of Paycor Stadium upgrades, with the Bengals and NFL contributing $120 million—half via an NFL loan program—and the county providing $64.5 million. The improvements, covering suites, club lounges, concessions, and key infrastructure, are part of a broader $830 million renovation plan expected to be completed by 2029. The current agreement does not extend the team's lease, and both parties face a June 30 deadline to negotiate a new long-term lease or a two-year extension. Some county commissioners support leveraging NFL and team investments, while others have concerns about fiscal priorities and seek further negotiation. The deal follows months of contentious talks and mutual accusations of default but marks progress toward keeping the Bengals in Cincinnati. Final approval from county commissioners is pending.