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Another OTA practice, and another positive review from new offensive coordinator Hue Jackson on the play of Andy Dalton. Entering the final year of his rookie deal, it's clear that Dalton has been working hard since his latest one-and-done playoff appearance, and is set on proving he's a franchise QB.
Yes, it's June .Yes, it's ball in shorts. But Andy Dalton looks good. OC Hue Jackson: "He's improved all the way around. I see it."
— Paul Dehner Jr. (@pauldehnerjr) June 10, 2014
OC Jackson on Dalton: "He's taken charge and control. He's more compact, the ball comes out quicker. I'm excited about what the upside is."
— Paul Dehner Jr. (@pauldehnerjr) June 10, 2014
Speaking of franchise QB, the 49ers are paying Colin Kaepernick like one, and most believe Dalton's deal could be similar to his fellow 2011 second-round draftee. Both have had successful careers to this point, so it's not crazy to think Dalton's eventual extension could look like Kaepernick's.
Or, Dalton could simply view that as a deal that will help his agent and the Bengals find middle ground on a long-term extension:
"I think the biggest thing is it got done," Dalton said. "That's one thing that you see -- they took the time and were able to find a middle ground and get it done. I'm hopeful that'll happen for me soon.
"It all depends on the team's cap room. There's a bunch of different factors that go into it. But obviously you want to do something that's, to have guys around you that are going to help you out and help you be successful."
That sounds like a guy who's not focused on getting the biggest deal possible, and knows his contract will affect the Bengals to keep other talented players and remain contenders.
If that's the case, we should hope that a deal gets done soon and Cincinnati shifts more of their focus to A.J. Green and Vontaze Burfict.