In this week’s review, the Cincinnati Bengals bid adieu to Andy Dalton. While guidelines and proposals kept the NCAA busy. Plus, an unusually quiet first weekend of May in Kentucky and beyond.

Andy Dalton takes his talents to Texas

Former Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton is heading back to his birth state of Texas. Joining the Dallas Cowboys this past Saturday. Roughly 48 hours after being released by the Bengals. After spending his entire NFL career in Cincinnati up to this point. According to ESPN, Dalton’s one year deal with Dallas is worth at least $3 million. 

While growing up closer to Houston; Dalton wont be in a totally unfamiliar setting. Playing in the metroplex that’s home to his alma mater Texas Christian University. He also has an off-season home in the Dallas area. In the midst of his departure, Dalton thanked Cincinnati in an Instagram post. For more thoughts on this story, check out this Cincy Sports Journal post from last Friday.

More Bengals transactions of note

The Bengals are declining John Ross’ fifth-year option on his rookie contract. Meaning the wide receiver can become a free agent after the 2020 season. Drafted 9th overall in 2017, Ross still struggles to match the expectations of a first round pick on the field. Struggling with injuries and missed receptions throughout his career. Elsewhere, the Bengals signed ten college free agents last week. While acquiring Austin Calitro from the Jacksonville Jaguars and Samaje Perine from the Miami Dolphins on waivers.

The NCAA’s nine principles for resuming play

There were three noteworthy NCAA stories that emerged last week. All could have an impact on the future of college sports as we’ve known it. First, the NCAA is laying out their guidelines for resuming athletic activities. As numerous states begin to lift COVID-19 related restrictions. With nine core principles guiding the NCAA in their plans to resume play.

Overall, these principles state that activities will resume if there are no national restrictions. While stressing that state and local governments have a re-socialization plan in place. Along with colleges, universities and their athletic departments. These principles also stress the importance of having access to COVID-19 testing. Plus, the ability to monitor COVID-19 cases through means such as contact tracing.

Paving the way for a potential pay day 

In the second story, the NCAA took steps toward a plan for student-athletes to make money through endorsements. Last Tuesday, the NCAA’s Board of Governors supported proposed rule changes. Which could allow athletes to cash in on their name, image and likeness. These changes could allow athletes to be paid through third party endorsements. For example, being in a TV or radio ad or a shoe deal.

NCAA student-athletes could also be compensated as social media influencers. Along with compensation for autograph signings and other personal promotions. With no cap being placed on earnings under the current proposal. This proposal also features a few restrictions for athletes, schools and conferences. Athletes wouldn’t be allowed to use their school or conference’s logo. 

Conferences and schools wouldn’t be allowed to facilitate endorsements. Nor could they make endorsement payments themselves. Plus, schools and boosters can’t use endorsements as a way to pay for enrollment or participation in athletics. According to CBS Sports’ Barrett Sallee and Adam Silverstein; these rules are expected to be written by October 31st. With a vote by the NCAA currently set to occur no later than January 31, 2021.

NCAA Board doesn’t recommend transfer waiver plan

Elsewhere last week, the NCAA Division I Board of Directors didn’t recommend a proposed one-time transfer waiver. The plan would effect five of the NCAA’s most prominent sports. Baseball, football, men’s ice hockey, along with men’s and women’s basketball. Currently, athletes in those sports would have to sit out for a year if they transferred. The DI Council will ultimately vote on this proposal on May 20th.

An unusually quiet first weekend of May

The first Saturday in May was an eerily quiet one at Louisville’s Churchill Downs. With the Kentucky Derby being postponed due to COVID-19. Marking the first time in 75 years that the race wasn’t held on the first Saturday in May. This year’s “run for the roses” is now set to take place on September 5th. Meanwhile, Runners across Cincinnati had a chance to sleep in this past Sunday. With the Flying Pig Marathon also being postponed due to COVID-19. The marathon is now scheduled to take place on October 11th.

In closing, rest in peace Don Shula.