Andy Dalton: Couple of proposals sent over

Unfortunately to some, the all-consuming debate on whether to extend Andy Dalton figures to last throughout most of the summer -- save for the momentary break in May when the NFL Draft kicks off. Head coach Marvin Lewis is ready to get something done. Owner Mike Brown isn't really committing one way or the other; he'd like to re-sign Dalton but the cost is essentially prohibitive for other positions and extensions (per his thought process).

However, proposals have already been exchanged, the starting quarterback told SiriusXM NFL Radio on Monday.

"There have been talks about it. There have been a couple of proposals sent over and different things," Dalton said on Monday. "We're working. Hopefully, we can get something done. I'm not too worried about it. I know in the right timing everything is going to happen. Obviously, everyone would like to get something done sooner rather than later."

The ideal situation is allow Dalton's contract to play out without an extension, essentially proving that he can win the big games, especially in the postseason. Do that and the team should be willing to hand out the extra money (which is their choice considering it's theirs) for the extension. Otherwise you risk locking yourself into a deal for a quarterback who may champion the regular season but fizzle in the playoffs.