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Bengals finalize multiyear deal with Andy Dalton, quarterback relieved to have contract done

Associated Press
Published | Updated

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton (14) cheers from the sidelines with Clint Boling (65) and A.J. Green (18) while the kickoff squad practices at the NFL football team's training camp, Friday, Aug. 1, 2014, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Al Behrman) (The Associated Press)

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton (14) talks with, left to right, tight end Jermaine Gresham, running back Giovani Bernard, and tight end Tyler Eifert during practice at the NFL football team's training camp, Friday, Aug. 1, 2014, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Al Behrman) (The Associated Press)

The Cincinnati Bengals are making Andy Dalton one of the highest-paid quarterbacks in the league.

Dalton signed a six-year extension on Monday. According to multiple reports, the deal is worth up to $115 million and will prevent Dalton playing out the final year of his rookie contract.

Dalton says he is relieved to have the deal signed before the season.

The deal was announced at a news conference on Monday.

Dalton has passed for more than 3,000 yards in each of his three seasons. He led the Bengals to an 11-5 record and AFC North title in 2013. He set career highs with 33 touchdown passes and 20 interceptions.

Despite his regular-season success, Dalton has been criticized for throwing six interceptions with only one touchdown in three postseason losses.

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