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The best moments from the Bengals’ pre-training camp media luncheon

Mike Brown and Marvin Lewis sat down with the Bengals media today and discussed a variety of different topics, such as protests, Lewis’ contract extension and working with new coordinators this season.

Frank Victores-USA TODAY Sports

Bengals fans are one step closer to football season! The Cincinnati media met with Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis and owner/president Mike Brown on Tuesday in Cincinnati, just ahead of the team reporting to Paul Brown Stadium for training camp this week.

The Bengals media luncheon was one more item to check off the list before we can watch large men in pads and tight pants hitting each other. Brown, Lewis, and other members of the Bengals’ coaching staff had a lot to say. They discussed last season, this upcoming season, new coaches, new and returning players, and even the 1988 Super Bowl team. This is one of two times per year Brown speaks to the media, so it’s always a big moment.

Here are some of the highlights from Tuesday’s luncheon.

Mike Brown

As the owner of the Bengals since 1991, Mike Brown has faced the media a time or two in his career. As the man who makes all the big decisions and signs all the checks, we always want to hear what he wants to say, even if it sounds a little off at times.

Brown is back ... in the kitchen?

On Marvin Lewis:

The Bengals’ offensive coordinator is back after taking on his role in Week 3 last season following the firing of Ken Zampese. The team also hired a new defensive coordinator in Teryl Austin, so both units have changed since last season. Both coordinators had the chance to talk to the media later on in the day (more on that below).

On the 2017 season:

On player’s protests during the national anthem:

He then finished discussing the national anthem issues by saying he would not discuss the national anthem issues.

He then continued to discuss it.

On winning the Super Bowl:

On the 1988 Super Bowl team, which will be honored in Week 2 this season, at the Bengals’ home opener:

Mike Brown on Billy Price:

Mike Brown on young Bengals:

Bill Lazor

Then Bill Lazor spoke with the media about his first season as the Bengals full-time offensive coordinator.

On some of his young players:

Lazor on Marvin Lewis:

Teryl Austin

Austin made his first appearance at the Bengals’ media luncheon since joining the team this offseason and coming over from Detroit, where he held the same role.

Marvin Lewis

On Bengals quarterbacks:

On the new additions to the coaching staff:


Overall, the Bengals’ decision makers are optimistic about this season, even though they didn’t think last season was as bad as people think. Brown and Lewis are excited about their new coordinators, and all of the coaching staff is excited about how the young players will step up.

Training camp is the next item on the calendar, which begins on Thursday. The season will be here before you know it!