DONE: Bengals Legend Anthony Muñoz Donates Entire $10.8 Million to New Stadium Project, Says “Bengals Pride Lives on in Me Wherever I Go”
In a remarkable display of loyalty and love for the city of Cincinnati, Hall of Famer and Bengals legend Anthony Muñoz has donated his entire $10.8 million in personal savings to the team’s new stadium project. The act, both humbling and historic, further cements Muñoz’s status not just as the greatest player in franchise history but as a pillar of the Cincinnati community.
Speaking during a heartfelt press conference at Paycor Stadium, the 65-year-old Muñoz stood in front of a crowd of fans, former teammates, and local leaders and said, “This team gave me everything. It gave me a home, a purpose, and a family. Bengals pride lives on in me wherever I go — and I want that pride to be passed on for generations to come.”
The Bengals are currently in the early stages of planning a new stadium that will replace Paycor Stadium, their home since 2000. With the current lease set to expire in the coming years, momentum has been building for a modernized, world-class venue to match the team’s rise as a perennial contender in the AFC. While public-private partnerships are expected to fund much of the project, Muñoz’s personal contribution sent a shockwave of inspiration across the organization and city.
Muñoz, widely considered the best offensive lineman in NFL history, played his entire 13-year career (1980–1992) with the Bengals. He was a cornerstone of the team’s Super Bowl runs in the 1980s and remains the only Bengal inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Off the field, he’s spent decades giving back through the Anthony Muñoz Foundation, focusing on empowering youth in the Greater Cincinnati area. His latest act of giving, however, transcends philanthropy — it is a heartfelt statement about identity, gratitude, and legacy.
“I’ve been blessed in more ways than I can count,” Muñoz continued. “I’ve always believed in giving back. But this is about more than giving — it’s about investing in a future I believe in. I want this stadium to be a symbol of hope, pride, and possibility.”
Bengals owner Mike Brown, in a rare public appearance, praised Muñoz’s donation as “the most selfless act in franchise history.” He added, “Anthony has always represented the very best of who we are. His loyalty, humility, and love for this city are unmatched. We are beyond honored.”
While full architectural plans for the new stadium have yet to be revealed, early reports suggest it will feature a retractable roof, expanded seating, community spaces, and mixed-use development around the venue to create a year-round destination. With Cincinnati’s recent resurgence as a football city — powered by stars like Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase — the timing of the project feels perfect.
Muñoz has reportedly asked that no part of the new stadium be named after him, insisting that the focus remain on the team and city. Still, fans are already campaigning for a statue or dedication within the new complex.
Social media quickly lit up with tributes from fans, athletes, and public figures. Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow tweeted, “Legend. Example. Leader. We play for guys like Anthony.” Local leaders have also expressed support for honoring Muñoz’s contribution with a permanent fixture in the new stadium’s design.
For Muñoz, the gesture is simply an extension of a lifelong relationship.
“I wore the stripes with pride for over a decade,” he said. “And just because I’m no longer on the field doesn’t mean I’m done fighting for this team, this city, and its future.”
As plans for the Bengals’ next home take shape, Muñoz’s unprecedented gift will forever stand as a powerful reminder of what it truly means to be a Bengal — in spirit, in service, and in heart.
