Andy Dalton steered the Cincinnati Bengals to playoffs as a rookie, improving a 4-12 team into a 9-7 stalwart.

The second-year pro signal-caller told NFL Network’s “NFL AM” on Friday he worked this offseason to improve his consistency and big play capability to take advantage of his playmakers, like wide receiver A.J. Green.

“One of the few things I wanted to work on was throwing the deep ball, just getting my footwork right and things like that,” Dalton said. “That was one of my big focuses,  from there, second year I’ve got more of a leadership role now, I’ve got some credibility about my style of play and what everybody can expect from me. I feel like I’ve gotten better.”

Dalton explained that being a leader in his sophomore season means being more vigilant in how his teammates execute on the practice field.

“Last year maybe in practice just worrying about getting the next play if there was a missed assignment on things, where now I’m going up and talking to guys,” Dalton said. “I think it’s just easier for me to go out and help lead these guys.”

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