The Facts: Dalton went 50-26-1 in his first five seasons, leading the Bengals to the postseason four years in a row. But the quarterback has gone only 18-24-1 the past three seasons. New HC Zac Taylor, though, continues to say all the right things about Dalton.
Diehards Line:Taylor was asked Wednesday about wanting to bring in competition for Dalton, with a follow-up question about drafting a quarterback to develop behind Dalton. “I think it’s important every backup in our building is competing for a job,” Taylor said. “I think Andy has a really bright future in what we are going to do. ..." Dalton has proven himself capable, in the eyes of the Bengals personnel department, and also has an advantageous contract (two years remaining with no dead money salary cap charge if he's released) for a potential bridge to a quarterback of the future. Taylor could work with Dalton for years to come or fall in love with a prospect in this year's draft or the next and choose to transition.