Bengals Updates

• Jay Morrison of SI.com reports that Bengals tight end Mike Gesicki has secured a $125,000 incentive for reaching 55 receptions, and he earned similar incentives in Weeks 14, 15, and 17. Gesicki requires just three more receiving yards to claim another $125,000 for hitting 600 total yards and needs two additional touchdowns for a further $125,000 incentive.
• Morrison also indicates that offensive lineman Cody Ford is on track to receive a $600,000 incentive for participating in 50 percent of the offensive snaps this season.
• As the offseason approaches, the Bengals face a crucial decision regarding Tee Higgins, who will be an unrestricted free agent. Quarterback Joe Burrow emphasized the need to retain top players: “Whenever a great player leaves, you wish you could have found a way to keep them. You don’t want to make a living out of letting great players leave the building. That’s why you need to do everything you can to get those deals done early.” (Paul Dehner Jr.)
• Burrow acknowledged the possibility of Higgins leaving but expressed it isn’t part of the team’s plans: “It’s obviously a possibility, not one that I’m excited about, but that’s not in the plans, I would say.” (Dehner Jr.)
• Higgins appreciated Burrow’s support, stating: “I love it. A guy like him saying that about me is a good feeling. I’m not opposed to staying here. But obviously, it has to be right at the end of the day.” (Morrison)

Browns Updates

• Browns offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey announced that quarterback Bailey Zappe has earned the opportunity to play in Week 18, noting: “Bailey Zappe has prepared like he’s been a starter. He’s played a lot of ball… Put himself in position for a potential opportunity.” (Chris Easterling)
• When pressed about discussions related to returning next season, Dorsey stated he is focused on this week, saying: “I’m just focused on this week. We’ll cross those bridges next week.” (Scott Petrak)
• Browns defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz praised veteran safety Rodney McLeod, who will retire after this season: (Scott Petrak)
• Left guard Joel Bitonio plans to wait until after the season to decide on retirement, as reported by Petrak.

Ravens Updates

In response to questioning whether the season feels like it is winding down, Lamar Jackson asserted that the Ravens are “just getting started.”

“It doesn’t; it really doesn’t,” Jackson shared, via NFL.com. “It feels like the season is just getting started. But yeah, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Eve.”

Jackson reflected on the year, noting he doesn’t have a standout memory from 2024 but cherishes the experience: “There’s a lot of memories from 2024. I don’t think I have a standout. I don’t have a standout. It’s been a lot of blessings. I can’t complain. Great year.”

• Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken praised Jackson’s impressive season: “It’s been amazing. It’s a credit to him and the work that he’s put in. He wants to be great. He’s about as humble as you can ask for a superstar.” (Jeff Zrebiec)