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Former Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton is set to join his third team in three years.
After a solid stint with the Dallas Cowboys, Dalton is now set to join the Chicago Bears on a one-year deal. Per ESPN’s Adam Schefter, it’s a $10 million deal that can rise to $13 million if certain incentives are met.
Former Cowboys' QB Andy Dalton is signing a one-year, $10 million deal, with the chance to earn another $3 million in incentives, with the Chicago Bears, per sources.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 16, 2021
Chicago was an easy Dalton contender to identify because of Bill Lazor, who coached in Cincinnati from 2016-18 as the quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator. Lazor is now the Bears’ offensive coordinator.
Last season in Dallas, Dalton completed 64.9% of his passes for 2,170 yards and 14 touchdowns vs. eight interceptions while going 4-5 as a starter. He filled in for an injured Dak Prescott, who is on track to be ready for Week 1 of the 2021 season, so it makes sense Dalton is finding a new home with an easier path to being a starter.
Mitch Trubisky, and while Nick Foles is under contract for two more seasons, he did nothing to convince the Bears he can be a quality starter for them. It will still likely be an open competition, but one that Dalton will have every opportunity to win.
Oh, and the Bengals are scheduled to play at Chicago this season, so it’s possible Dalton gets a second shot at his former team after winning in Cincinnati with Dallas this past season.