The annoyance of Carson Palmer's future with Bengals fans remains at the stage best defined as explosive irritation. Bengals fans still scratch their heads as to why Carson Palmer isn't traded and even more Bengals fans put their hands to their ears screaming, "la-la-la." Truth be told the NFL's trading deadline is approaching and if the Bengals decide to trade Palmer, they'll need to pull the trigger before Tuesday's 4 p.m. deadline.
As to whether the Bengals actually pull the trigger, let's offer the following from ESPN's John Clayton:
Brown has always stood on principles. He learned that from his father, Paul Brown. While I wish Palmer was back in the league because he's a good quarterback and a good person, this was the most predictable non-trade you'll ever find. Palmer knew that when he decided to not show up. Next Tuesday is the trade deadline, and when Palmer isn't traded, you'll see Brown wasn't bluffing. Also, Brown won't gloat if the team gets off to a 5-2 start, which it has a decent chance to do. He's old-school.
Bengals Owner/President/General Manager Mike Brown reiterated that Carson Palmer won't be traded with Bengals.com and the Cincinnati Enquirer, pointing out there's no deadline to trade Palmer by.
“I don’t have anything more to say on that. I’ve had my say on that and it remains all there is to say,” Brown said.
Seriously. It took me three times to read that correctly. Not because I didn't get the context of what's being said; rather it feels like a tongue twister I can't conquer. The most significant quote from Brown regarding Palmer came during a press conference in late July, soon after the quarterback reportedly visited the Bengals, saying:
"He has retired. I wish him well. If he is going to walk away from his commitment, we're not going to reward it."