Marvin Lewis on If He Wants to Coach Bengals Next Season: 'Sure'

Marvin Lewis apparently doesn't intend to leave the Bengals at the end of the year voluntarily.

When asked if he wants to coach in Cincinnati next season, he responded with a simple "sure," per Paul Dehner Jr. of the Cincinnati Enquirer.

ESPN's Adam Schefter previously reported the head coach was planning to leave after the season ended to "pursue opportunities elsewhere."

There were even reports the team was targeting Cleveland Browns coach Hue Jackson as a potential replacement, via Albert Breer of The MMQB.

Lewis has denied the reports of his leaving, per Katherine Terrell of ESPN.

The 59-year-old has been with the Bengals since 2003, accumulating a 123-112-3 record in 15 seasons. He took the team to the playoffs seven times, although he is 0-7 in those appearances.

Still, he apparently has the support of the veterans on the roster.

"[If Lewis leaves], it will hurt a lot of guys," receiver Brandon LaFell said, per Terrell. "It will hurt. ...This is the only coach they have ever had, this is the only coach that has been here for 10-plus years. To change, it will hurt."

Lewis' contract expires at the end of this season.