Bengals' Dalton: 'I wasn't sure if I was going to be starting again'

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton didn't expect head coach Zac Taylor to return to him as the team's starting signal-caller for Week 13 against the New York Jets.

"I wasn't sure if it was going to happen," Dalton said during a Wednesday press conference.

"I wasn't sure if I was going to be starting again," he added.

But the 32-year-old is pleased after the decision.

"It feels good. Just as a player that started basically every chance I've had without being hurt, it gives you a different perspective being on the other side," he said prior to what will be his 129th career start.

"I'm glad to be back out playing. I feel like I can help us win, I'm excited to be going this last five games."

Dalton began the season as the Bengals' starting pivot, but he was benched midway through the schedule. He had recorded eight losses in as many games, throwing nine touchdown passes and eight interceptions before fourth-round rookie Ryan Finley replaced him.

However, Cincinnati didn't score more than 13 points in any game over Finley's three starts, with the 24-year-old failing to eclipse 200 passing yards in each outing.

"We just want a win, and that veteran presence he has will certainly be helpful," Taylor said of Dalton, according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.

Dalton isn't concerned about potential backlash if he spoils the 0-11 Bengals' shot at the No. 1 pick in 2020.

"If this city isn't happy for wins then I don't know what to tell them," he said.

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