The Cincinnati Bengals signed head coach Marvin Lewis to a two-year contract extension running through the 2019 season, the team announced Tuesday.
"Marvin Lewis has been an important member of the Cincinnati community and the Bengals family for the past 15 years, and we are happy to have reached this agreement,” Bengals president Mike Brown said in the announcement. “Marvin has made significant contributions during his time here. While recently we have fallen short of our expectations, we have full confidence in Marvin to re-establish winning football in 2018."
Lewis' future with the Bengals was unclear prior to Tuesday's extension, as he was reportedly exploring opportunities with other teams and was also reportedly considering a transition to a front-office role with the Bengals.
Lewis spoke with Bengals ownership Monday and told the media they hadn't discussed a contract or his future with the organization.
"My family and I are very grateful for the opportunity to stay in Cincinnati and continue my career with the Bengals," Lewis said. "My job is to win a World Championship. We have a talented roster full of veteran leaders and emerging young stars, and I am committed to making the necessary improvements to put this team in the best position to win."
Lewis is the NFL's second-longest tenured head coach, behind only New England's Bill Belichick. The Bengals have a 125-112-3 record during Lewis' time with the franchise.
Some speculated that the Bengals would dismiss Lewis after missing the playoffs for the second consecutive season, slumping to a 7-9 record in 2017.
Lewis will hold a press conference Wednesday.
