Bengals unveil first wave of extensive upgrades to $851m stadium as work ‘exceeds expectations’

The Cincinnati Bengals have unveiled a round of ‘major upgrades’ to Paycor Stadium ahead of the 2026 season.

Unlike a handful of their NFL rivals, the Bengals have chosen to renovate their home field, rather than relocating to build a multi-billion dollar facility.

Cincinnati Bengals

A number of upgrades to public spaces have already been made over the years, but what’s been described as ‘Phase One’ of the long-term project has now made some of the ‘most extensive’ improvements to Paycor Stadium since it opened in 2000.

“Phase One projects prioritized work that will have a wide impact, benefiting fans throughout the stadium,” a statement, shared by the Bengals last week, read.

The team has suggested renovations ‘exceeded expectations’ and that Paycor — built at a cost of $851 million — is ‘well positioned’ for future work.

Restrooms have been renovated and concession areas have been upgraded in recent months, while club lounges have been transformed, and suites reimagined.

The Bengals Pro Shop has also been redesigned, and a modernized scoreboard control room should help improve the gameday atmosphere.

Renovations will continue in 2027, with more large-scale projects planned.

Those will include adding escalators, replacing stadium seats, and installing a new, larger videoboard that features enhanced technology.

The Bengals confirmed that Phase One will be ‘substantially complete’ ahead of the 2026 NFL season.

Cincinnati will host back-to-back preseason games in August against the Detroit Lions and Chicago Bears, before opening the season proper at home against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on September 13.

“The multi-year renovation project reflects the shared commitment of Hamilton County, the Bengals and the stadium management team to responsibly invest in Paycor Stadium, ensuring it remains a premier NFL venue while supporting economic activity along Cincinnati’s riverfront,” the team’s statement added.

Cincinnati Bengals

Cincinnati Bengals

Cincinnati Bengals

“The investment also strengthens The Banks, which generates more than $2.5 billion in annual economic impact, including more than $1 billion annually driven by the Bengals.

“The capital expenditures for renovations provide incremental economic impact in the form of jobs and earnings along with fiscal impact.”

Bengals QB is ‘closest ascendant’ to legendary Tom Brady

An upgraded Paycor will no doubt delight fans, but the main attraction in Cincinnati, of course, is quarterback Joe Burrow.

The former No. 1 pick had an injury-hit 2025 and started just eight games as the Bengals struggled to a 6-11 record without their franchise star.

He’ll be back in September, and Sports Illustrated’s senior NFL writer Albert Breer has offered a legendary comparison ahead of his return.

“I think Burrow is the closest ascendant to (Tom) Brady,” Breer told NBC Sports Boston, comparing him to the seven-time Super Bowl champion QB.

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“Just as far as the way he plays in big games. His play style.

“I think if we get him on those big stages again, if he can stay healthy, and the defense can just be middle of the road, you’re going to see it again.

“When he’s been in there, he’s been one of the best quarterbacks in football.

“Two years ago, when he was fully healthy for the whole year, (he was) maybe the most valuable player in football. He was right up there.”

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With an upgraded Paycor Stadium, and healthy Burrow on the field, it could be an exciting year in Cincinnati.