The Cincinnati Bengals fell short of expectations in the 2024 NFL season, finishing 9-8 and missing the playoffs. But with the offseason still in its early stages, they're already focusing on next season and the future.
On Sunday, they signed quarterback Joe Burrow's top two targets-Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins-to long-term extensions.
While Burrow is likely thrilled not to have to worry about contract talks for them two next season, he's also focused on something else for 2025. The Miami Dolphins have already been designated as the home team in the NFL's first-ever Madrid game, and there appears to be speculation that the Bengals could be their opponent.
Nothing is official yet, but on Tuesday, Burrow took to social media to share his hope that the Bengals will be Miami's opponent.
"Bengals v. Dolphins in Madrid?" Burrow wrote. "Please be true."
The Dolphins are scheduled to host the Bengals next season. With them being one of Miami's nine home games, it leaves Cincinnati a one-in-nine chance of going to Madrid.
Burrow will likely not find out until the NFL releases each team's schedule in mid-May. Regardless, the game will be held at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home to world-class soccer club Real Madrid C.F.
The Bengals have only played two NFL International Series games in franchise history, both in London. The first came in 2016 against Washington (now the Commanders), followed by a matchup with the Los Angeles Rams in 2019.
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This story was originally published March 18, 2025 at 5:51 PM.