Excitement rippled through Paycor Stadium today as the Cincinnati Bengals announced that Hall of Fame offensive lineman and franchise icon Anthony Muñoz is officially returning — this time, not in pads, but in the owner’s suite.
In a press conference surrounded by former teammates, current players, and Bengals fans, Muñoz was introduced as the newest co-owner of the team. The announcement marks a historic moment for both the Bengals organization and the city of Cincinnati, as Muñoz becomes the first former player in franchise history to take an ownership stake.
“This is more than football,” Muñoz said. “Cincinnati is my home. This franchise gave me everything, and now I have a chance to give back in a whole new way. I’m honored and humbled to help lead the Bengals into a new era.”
Muñoz, who spent his entire 13-year NFL career with the Bengals from 1980 to 1992, is widely regarded as one of the greatest offensive linemen in league history. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1998, he was an 11-time Pro Bowler and a 9-time First-Team All-Pro — feats that have yet to be matched by any other Bengal.
His leadership and influence off the field have also been monumental. Muñoz founded the Anthony Muñoz Foundation, which has impacted over 50,000 youth across Greater Cincinnati. His return as co-owner brings not only football acumen but also a powerful community connection.
The Bengals have risen to become one of the NFL’s most electrifying teams in recent years. With back-to-back AFC Championship appearances and a star-studded roster led by quarterback Joe Burrow, Muñoz’s addition to the ownership group injects heritage, heart, and a Hall of Fame mindset into a franchise on the verge of greatness.
With the city behind them, history in their corner, and Muñoz helping steer the ship, the Bengals’ pursuit of a Super Bowl has never looked more promising.