Lewis gives Cincy no hint on future

Associated Press

CINCINNATI

Coach Marvin Lewis gave Bengals players and assistants no hints on Monday about whether he’s inclined to return.

Lewis told owner Mike Brown what needs to change for him to consider staying in Cincinnati, where he’s had two winning records in eight seasons.

The Bengals completed their worst season under Lewis, finishing 4-12 with a loss in Baltimore on Sunday.

Neither Lewis nor Brown would discuss their meeting. Brown said through a team spokesman that a resolution could come as soon as today.

Lewis wants changes in how the organization operates, including more control over roster decisions.

He also has lobbied years for a covered practice field — the Bengals are the only northern NFL team without one.

Lewis turned down an extension last season, saying their differences had to be resolved before he would agree to stay.

A 13-7 loss in Baltimore on Sunday ended the final season on his contract. Brown evidently would like to keep Lewis — a firing would have happened quickly Monday if the owner wanted change.

“I think he wants to be back, and I think everybody wants him back,” safety Chris Crocker said. “But it’s going to be a decision between him and ownership. One thing is when you lose and you don’t have a good season, something changes. You don’t know what’s going to change.”

Lewis presided over standard end-of-the-season meetings with players and his assistant coaches on Monday, making sure not to tip his hand about his intentions.

“He always handles his own business and keeps it to himself,” left tackle Andrew Whitworth said. “It really was just a normal exit meeting. He didn’t really get on the subject.”

Some players listened for subtle clues and came away disappointed.

Asked if Lewis’ comments felt more like a farewell or a see-you-again, defensive lineman Domata Peko said, “It was kind of mixed. It was a little bit of both. I’m not sure what’s going to happen.”

Same with the assistant coaches. Defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer, who is likely to be the top in-house candidate if there’s an opening, said Lewis avoided the topic during their meeting on Monday.

“You’re not going to get any of that kind of stuff out of me,” Zimmer said, “so don’t even try it.”