Cody Ford Jokes About Retirement If Bengals Don’t Win the Super Bowl

In a league where every quote gets dissected, memed, and turned into locker room bulletin board material, Cincinnati Bengals offensive lineman Cody Ford may have just delivered the soundbite of the year. With a grin plastered across his face, Ford jokingly told reporters this week that he’d “retire on the spot” if the Bengals don’t capture the Lombardi Trophy this season.

Naturally, the comment has sent Who Dey Nation into a frenzy. Was he serious? Is this the boldest declaration of confidence yet? Or simply a man who knows how to get a laugh out of a press conference? The answer, of course, is probably a little bit of both.

“Look,” Ford chuckled, “if we don’t win it all, maybe it’s a sign I should take up fishing instead. I hear the Ohio River has some nice catfish. But honestly, I believe in this team so much that saying it out loud just feels right.”

The Bengals, led by quarterback Joe Burrow — also known as the $275 million franchise — have one of the most explosive rosters in the NFL. From Ja’Marr Chase stretching the field, to Tee Higgins creating matchup nightmares, and a defense that’s been steadily underrated, Ford’s confidence might not be misplaced.

Still, fans can’t resist poking fun. Social media lit up within minutes, with one user tweeting, “Somebody get Cody a fishing pole just in case.” Another chimed in, “Retirement papers are being pre-filled at the NFL offices right now.”

For his part, Ford seems to be leaning into the bit. “If I do retire,” he joked again, “I’ll hold my press conference at Skyline Chili. One last meal before riding into the sunset.”

It’s all in good fun, but make no mistake: the Bengals’ offensive line knows the pressure is real. Protecting Burrow and giving the offense time to shine is the foundation of any Super Bowl run. Ford’s humor, though, reflects a confidence and looseness that this team desperately needs heading into a grueling season.

If Cincinnati finally hoists that long-awaited Lombardi, Ford may go down as a prophet. If not, well — Bengals fans might just find him on a boat somewhere, telling fish tales instead of blocking blitzes.