December

Dec. 31, 2008   

Bengals' productive WR tandem may be broken up in offseason

A source close to the Bengals suggests that it’s less than “50-50” that the Bengals bring back both halves of the WR tandem of T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Chad Ocho Cinco in 2009. The Bengals have to decide whether to give Houshmandzadeh the franchise tag or let him test unrestricted free agency. The Bengals have not ruled out designating Houshmandzadeh as their franchise player. If Houshmandzadeh can be re-signed, a decision to try to trade Ocho Cinco could be an easier one to make. However, Ocho Cinco, who is signed through 2011, comes off one of the worst seasons of his career, and his market value likely has fallen. Were either of the Bengals’ top two receivers to depart, it’s likely 2008 third-round pick WR Andre Caldwell would have a great shot at stepping into the starting lineup.

Dec. 24, 2008   

Bengals OT Andrews' knee injury could affect his value in free agency

Bengals ORT Stacy Andrews, who’s entering unrestricted free agency, tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee Dec. 21 at Cleveland. Also, head coach Marvin Lewis indicated Andrews tore “other ligaments” in the knee as well. The Bengals gave Andrews, 27, the franchise tag last offseason. It’s unclear whether the Bengals would have designated him as their franchise player in 2009, considering that would have required giving Andrews a raise from the $7.455 million in salary he made this season. And Andrews has struggled at times this season, allowing 9½ sacks in his 15 starts, according to STATS Inc. The 6-7, 342-pound Andrews, who was PFW’s 17th-ranked free agent in the Class of 2008, is versatile and athletic, and he could draw interest even coming off the injury if teams were confident he could contribute in 2009. But the injury very well could affect his earning power.

Dec. 19, 2008   

Bengals' defense quietly rugged vs. run

Updated at 10:05 a.m. EST Monday, Dec. 22

The Bengals’ defense endured significant injuries this season, losing Week One starters at defensive end (Robert Geathers, Frostee Rucker), linebacker (Keith Rivers), cornerback (Johnathan Joseph) and safety (Dexter Jackson) along the way. Surprisingly enough, though, the defense has quietly emerged as one of the feel-good stories of the season. Look no further than the team’s play vs. the run. Entering the final two weeks of the season, the Bengals were allowing only 3.97 yards per rush, an impressive feat considering opponents were averaging 31.7 carries per game. In short, this has been a pretty rugged defense, considering the circumstances. Two veterans who have impressed with their play vs. the run are SLB Rashad Jeanty, a one-time CFL defensive end, and S Chris Crocker, who has been productive ever since being signed on Oct. 30.

Dec. 11, 2008   

Houshmandzadeh's play a bright spot for Bengals

Updated at 9:50 a.m. EST Monday, Dec. 15

In a tough season for the Bengals, WR T.J. Houshmand­zadeh’s dependability has been a positive for a team that has needed all of the help on offense it could get. The 6-1, 199-pound Houshmandzadeh is on pace to exceed 100 catches for the second consecutive season, a remarkable feat for a receiver toiling for an offense that hasn’t been able to find its way throughout the campaign. One league personnel man, speaking on the condition of anonymity, recently praised Houshmandzadeh’s competitiveness and work on short and intermediate routes in a lost season. On Dec. 1, Bengals owner Mike Brown indicated to the team’s official Web site and The Cincinnati Enquirer that the Bengals have talked with Houshmandzadeh’s representatives about bringing back the free-agent-to-be receiver, but both sides “haven't been able to reach ground that both of us accepted.”

Dec. 5, 2008   

Bengals' running game in need of major repairs

Updated at 9:30 a.m. EST Monday, Dec. 8

One of the Bengals’ top priorities in the offseason figures to be fixing their broken running game, which remains one of the league’s worst and is on pace to gain the fewest rushing yards in a non-strike-shortened season in franchise history. The problems in the running game have been persistent and widespread, from Chris Perry fumbling away the starting job early in the season to Cedric Benson struggling in his first four games after Cincinnati’s Week 10 bye. To be fair to the Bengals’ backs, running room has been scarce throughout the ’08 campaign, but the inability of either Perry or Benson to stake a strong claim to the job likely means the Bengals will be in the market for RB help, the way we hear it. Since 2002, the Bengals have drafted only two tailbacks: Perry, a first-rounder in ’04, and Kenny Irons, a ’07 second-rounder whose career was derailed by a knee injury.

November

Nov. 26, 2008   

Bengals' pass-rush woes may get worse after loss of DEs Geathers, Rucker

Updated at 8:35 a.m. EST Monday, Dec. 1

The loss of Robert Geathers and Frostee Rucker to season-ending injuries will force the Bengals to be resourceful in the final weeks, and it’s more bad news for a defense that has been little threat to opposing passers. Both players were hurt in Week 12 at Pittsburgh, with starting DLE Geathers hurting his knee and backup DRE Rucker suffering a hamstring injury. The injuries came after the line already had lost Antwan Odom, the starter at right end, to a shoulder injury. In the meantime, the Bengals will lean heavily on Jonathan Fanene and DT John Thornton at defensive end. Fanene is listed at 295 points, with Thornton listed at 297, so their ability to be stout at the point of attack is unlikely to be an issue. However, Fanene and Thornton are not the pass-rush threats that Odom, Geathers and Rucker can be. That said, the club is averaging just 1.1 sacks per game.

Nov. 21, 2008   

Bengals looking to quickly move beyond latest Ocho Cinco incident

For all of the drama between WR Chad Ocho Cinco and the Bengals in his eight seasons in Cincinnati, the team had never seen fit to suspend or deactivate him for disciplinary reasons.

That changed in Week 12, when head coach Marvin Lewis sent Ocho Cinco home after he walked out of a team meeting, an incident reportedly preceded by a dispute with offensive coordinator Bob Bratkowski.

However, Lewis, who would not publicly disclose the events that landed Ocho Cinco on the inactive list, plans to welcome the receiver back for the Week 13 game vs. Baltimore. And according to a source close to the club, the Bengals appear likely to quickly move on from this incident. Given the Bengals’ past decisions concerning Ocho Cinco, this isn’t especially surprising. The Bengals have always tried to make their relationship work with Ocho Cinco even when the receiver has been determined to sever it. Never was this more clear than last offseason, when Ocho Cinco (then widely known as Chad Johnson before legally changing his name in the summer) and agent Drew Rosenhaus tried to engineer his exit from the Bengals. The Bengals refused to deal Ocho Cinco, with Lewis matter-of-factly pointing out that the club had him under contract through 2011. Eventually, Ocho Cinco backed down.

Ever since, he has hardly looked like the player who averaged 92.4 catches, 1,374 yards and 8.6 TDs from 2003-07. Ocho Cinco's on-field problems began in June, when he had ankle surgery and missed practice time early in training camp. Then, he suffered a left shoulder injury in the Bengals’ second preseason game. Ocho Cinco returned for the season-opener at Baltimore and had played in all 10 games before being deactivated, but his production (41 catches, 383 yards, four TDs) was more third-down-back like than that of a No. 1 receiver.

Even if the Bengals didn’t have a long-established habit of trying to work things out with Ocho Cinco, circumstance might leave them no choice. The Bengals, who turned down the Redskins’ offer of first- and third-round picks for Ocho Cinco last offseason, would likely struggle to garner such a package for the receiver this offseason were they so inclined. Ocho Cinco, who will be 31 in January, carries a salary-cap number of about $8 million for 2009.

Nov. 13, 2008   

Bengals '08 draft class may have biggest long-term impact on defense

To date, the Bengals haven't received the initial expected contribution from their 2008 draft class. Injuries certainly have played a role in this; WLB Keith Rivers, the team's first-round pick, suffered a broken jaw on Oct. 19 just as he was starting to make major strides in his play. Injuries also have hampered the development of rookie WRs Jerome Simpson and Andre Caldwell, who had combined for only one catch for two yards in Cincinnati's first nine games. However, in the long term, this could be a draft class the Bengals are quite happy with, especially when it comes to the help it could provide the defense. Rivers is regarded as a future star, and DT Pat Sims, a third-round pick, really has started to come on of late. Both figure to be starters, and key contributors, on defense in 2009. The roles of Simpson and Caldwell in '09 are a little less clear, although more will be expected of both.

Nov. 7, 2008   

Bengals QB Fitzpatrick showing some improvement

There is no getting around the fact the Bengals had the NFL's lowest-ranked offense (238.2 yards per game) entering their Week 10 bye and that the attack is sorely lacking the big-play capability it had in past campaigns. But those looking for a glimmer of hope on offense as the Bengals enter the homestretch can point to the improvement that QB Ryan Fitzpatrick showed before the bye. Make no mistake: Fitzpatrick will give way to Carson Palmer whenever Palmer's right elbow is healthy enough for him to return. But that may not happen this season, which makes Fitzpatrick's play vs. Jacksonville in Week Nine all the more important. Fitzpatrick completed a season-high 67.7 percent of his passes and threw two TD passes for the first time in his five starts. While Fitzpatrick's yardage per pass attempt (4.8) was far and away the worst among NFL starters entering Week 10, we hear some of the concerns about his arm strength have been unfounded. We're also hearing the club would have interest in re-signing Fitzpatrick, who is a free agent at season's end.

October

Oct. 31, 2008   

Bye coming just in time for Bengals

Updated at 9:23 a.m. CST Monday, Nov. 3

You don’t have to be a Bengals historian to know this wasn’t the first time the team has gone well into the fall in search of its first win. Five times in the last 18 seasons — 1991, 1993, 1994, 2002 and now 2008 — the Bengals  had no wins at daybreak on Nov. 1.

The good news for this edition of the Bengals, who scored their first win in Week Nine vs. Jacksonville: all but the ‘02 team ended up winning three games on the season, proof that things did, indeed, get better for some hopeless-looking Cincinnati teams of past seasons.

The ’08 Bengals regained a measure of respect in Week Nine after eight straight losses to start the season, leading the Jaguars from start to finish and holding off a furious Jacksonville comeback bid in the final minutes. The Bengals have to hope the win re-energizes a team that was starting to show signs of wearing down in the face of defeat after defeat, the way we hear it.

The Bengals’ sound and spirited play in Week Nine came after an alarming 35-6 loss at Houston on Oct. 26. The Bengals struggled in all three phases of the game, and the game got out of control by the third quarter. Another bad sign: One of the Texans’ touchdowns, a 39-yard score by WR Kevin Walter, was a direct result of a lack of hustle by Bengals CB Johnathan Joseph, who did not tag Walter until he had gotten off the ground and resumed running toward the endzone. For all of the Bengals’ problems this season, effort had not been one of them, and any sustained falloff in this area would be devastating.

Another area to keep an eye on in the final seven games is how the Bengals protect, and rush, the passer. The Bengals have allowed 30 sacks through nine games, and have sacked opposing quarterbacks just nine times. The discrepancy goes a long way in explaining why it’s been such a trying season for the Bengals. However, the Bengals did a better job in both areas vs. Jacksonville. QB Ryan Fitzpatrick (21-of-31 passing, 162 yards, two touchdowns, one interception) was sacked only twice. Also, the Bengals got good pressure on Jaguars QB David Garrard, sacking him three times. Rookie DT Pat Sims, who has been a revelation since joining the DL rotation, was especially disruptive, notching a sack and three QB hits.

Oct. 24, 2008   

Replacing Rivers won't be easy for Bengals

Updated at 9:45 a.m. EDT Monday Oct. 27

The hard, and legal, hit of Bengals rookie WLB Keith Rivers by Steelers WR Hines Ward broke Rivers’ jaw and ended his season. It’s a loss that hurts the Bengals on a number of levels. For one, Rivers, the club’s first-round pick, was developing nicely throughout his rookie campaign and has had his on-field growth stunted. Furthermore, it puts a strain on the Bengals’ LB depth. Ex-Cardinals LB Brandon Johnson steps into Rivers’ spot in the lineup. While the 6-5, 245-pound Johnson has flashed good instincts for the position, he is not quite the athlete Rivers is. Daryl Blackstock, who’s serving a four-game suspension for violating the NFL’s policy on performance-enhancing substances, is eligible to return to action in Week 11 and could eventually push Johnson. The silver lining, if there’s any, is that the Bengals have a chance to get a better idea of what they have in some of their reserve linebackers.

Oct. 17, 2008   

Uncertainty on Palmer's schedule for return to action

Updated at 9:59 a.m. EDT Monday. Oct. 20

Bengals QB Carson Palmer’s right elbow injury will likely keep hin out of the team’s Week Eight game at Houston, head coach Marvin Lewis indicated two days before the Bengals’ Oct. 19 game vs. Pittsburgh. Palmer has missed three games, two since returning for the Week Five game at Dallas, when he lacked the ability to make his full range of throws. The Bengals’ bye is Week 10, and with only two more games until the bye, it would not be a surprise if Palmer was out until at least the Week 11 game vs. Philadelphia. A source close to the club notes that Palmer badly wants to play again this season. And with the injury not considered season-ending, and with surgery not in the cards at this time, there’s a chance he’ll take the field again this season. Fourth-year QB Ryan Fitzpatrick has struggled in three starts in place of Palmer, with the club failing to score more than 14 points in any of those games.

Oct. 9, 2008   

Opportunity knocks for Benson in Cincinnati

Cedric Benson

There is little doubt the Bengals think highly of RB Chris Perry. They were patient with him even after injuries caused him to miss most of the 2004 and ’06 seasons and all of the ’07 campaign, and he rewarded their faith with a very good training camp this season. When it came time to choose a starting running back, the Bengals chose Perry, not incumbent Rudi Johnson, who was then released.

But Perry hasn’t exactly taken the job and run with it. In his first five starts, Perry fumbled five times, twice more than any other back in the NFL. In a recent interview with PFW, longtime Bengals RB coach Jim Anderson, while chalking up Perry's fumbles to "bad luck," also noted, "You can find all the reasons, but a running back, his job is to hold onto the ball."

As Perry has struggled somewhat, new competition for carries in Cincinnati has emerged. Ex-Bear Cedric Benson, signed after injuries to Kenny Watson and DeDe Dorsey, has made a positive first impression with his new club. Already he has earned a role in the offense; just five days after signing with the Bengals, Benson rushed 10 times for 30 yards at Dallas.

Benson fell out of favor with the Bears largely because of qualms about his lack of production in his only season as a starter and disgust over him being arrested twice in the span of a little less than a month in the offseason. (Charges in both cases were dropped the week before he signed with the Bengals.) But Anderson told PFW that Benson looks "rejuvenated" after not being with an NFL club at the beginning of the season. "Everyday he is working to play better," Anderson said.

In Cincinnati, Benson has gotten a fresh start — and he appears to be making the most of it. If anything, Benson could push for more playing time in the weeks to come, especially if he can become an asset in the passing game. A scenario where Benson and Perry alternate series is not far-fetched. It should be noted the Bengals are still pleased with some of Perry's performance this season, with Anderson praising his versatilty and competitiveness.

The Bengals have been looking for a way to jump-start their running game for the past couple of years. They were 26th in rushing in 2006, 24th in ’07 and 30th heading into Week Six this season. And from the looks of it, more work for Benson might be the next step they take in this regard.

Oct. 2, 2008   

Bengals' defense responding well to Zimmer

Updated at 10:02 a.m. EDT Monday, Oct. 6

In what has been a rough season for the Bengals to date, there is still a sense, the way we hear it, that defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer has done a solid job with the defense. The play of the LB corps has been a positive, with Dhani Jones — who moved to the middle in the offseason — providing a steady, veteran presence. Rookie WLB Keith Rivers also has impressed and looks like he’ll be a defensive stalwart for years to come. In the secondary, instinctive SS Chinedum Ndukwe has built on a promising rookie season filling in for the injured Dexter Jackson. Hard-hitting FS Marvin White also has flashed potential, as has CB Leon Hall. While it’s certainly a group that needs reinforcements, especially when it comes to rushing the passer and stuffing the run, the sense in Cincinnati is that the “D” has been a hardworking and sound group — and one that has responded positively to Zimmer’s tutelage.

September

Sept. 25, 2008   

Lack of a pass rush hurting Bengals

Updated at 8:45 a.m. EDT Monday, Sept. 29

One of the Bengals’ glaring flaws in the opening weeks of the season has been the lack of a consistent pass rush. In the first four games, the Bengals have notched only two sacks, which hasn’t helped a game-but-banged-up secondary coping with injuries to SS Dexter Jackson (thumb) and CB Johnathan Joseph (ankle). DRE Antwan Odom, the Bengals’ highest-paid free-agent signee of the offseason, has generated some pressure and has one of the team’s two sacks. However, the Bengals are undoubtedly looking for more production from DLE Robert Geathers, who notched only 3½ sacks in 2007 and, while getting close to the quarterback at times this season, hasn’t quite finished. The Bengals also could use more of a push up the middle from DTs Domata Peko and John Thornton, both of whom have shown some pocket-collapsing ability in the past.

Sept. 19, 2008   

Opinions vary on how to jump-start Bengals' passing game

Updated at 9:13 a.m. EDT Monday, Sept. 22

How to fix the Bengals’ passing game? Head coach Marvin Lewis has said that WRs Chad Ocho Cinco and T.J. Houshmandzadeh missing healthy portions of the offseason with injuries contributed to the slow start. Ocho Cinco, although he didn't blame the offensive line for the poor start, told Cincinnati reporters that the success of the passing game begins with the play of the line. There’s also the issue of QB Carson Palmer getting off to the worst start of his career. Lewis doesn’t want him to take that upon his shoulders. “He has a lot of abilities, he has learned a lot of lessons in his short tenure in the NFL, and I think that is one of them that he has learned,” Lewis said. The Bengals were more productive through the air in Week Three, as Palmer threw for 286 yards, despite getting sacked six times. Houshmandzadeh was the leading receiver with a 12-catch, 146-yard, one-TD performance.

Sept. 11, 2008   

Drastic changes not in store for Bengals' O-line after tough start

Updated at 9:07 a.m. EDT Monday, Sept. 15

Don’t expect any drastic changes to the Bengals’ offensive line after its poor play in Week One, the way we hear it. Some of the club’s lineup flexibility was lost when ORT Willie Anderson was released; his presence would have allowed the Bengals to move Stacy Andrews from right tackle inside to guard, if needed. Also, the Bengals gave ORG Bobbie Williams a look at center over the summer, but he’s back at right guard. Those taking a long view will note that the line had its struggles early last season but allowed only 17 sacks in 2007, and the unit generally was regarded as a strength entering this season. In Week Two, the Bengals surrendered just one sack in a loss to the Titans, who feature a fairly fearsome pass rush.

Sept. 5, 2008   

Bengals' confidence in Perry helps pave the way for Johnson's departure

Updated at 11:00 a.m. EDT Monday, Sept. 8

Four years ago, the Bengals passed on the opportunity to draft Oregon State RB Steven Jackson to take star Michigan RB Chris Perry. Jackson has developed into a star in St. Louis, while Perry has been a part-time player who’s struggled to stay healthy in his previous four NFL seasons. But Perry is finally getting a chance to become the Bengals’ featured back, and the club’s confidence in him went a long way in the decision to cut RB Rudi Johnson, the way we hear it. Johnson’s case to stay on the Bengals’ roster was hurt by questions about his durability and whether a nagging hamstring injury had robbed him of some of his burst.

Another issue at play in Johnson’s release, we’re told: the Bengals’ injury problems in recent seasons, which limited the team’s roster flexibility within the season and left the club downright thin at positions at times (for example, the utter lack of depth at linebacker at times in 2007). In short, the Bengals were not going to carry Johnson on the roster if they weren’t sure he could contribute for 16 games. News of Johnson’s release elicited surprise around the league, where Johnson is still regarded by some evaluators as a viable featured back for a team trying to establish a physical running game. Johnson didn’t last long on the open market, signing with the Lions, who want to run more than they did when Mike Martz ran the offense.

Perry, who missed all of 2007 after dislocating his right ankle late in the ’06 season, had a strong training camp, impressing the coaches with his work ethic. Now the question is whether he can handle getting double-digit carries each game for the first time since he was a senior at Michigan. He didn’t get off to a great start, gaining 37 yards and on 18 carries with one lost fumble in Week One. Veteran Kenny Watson is first in line to spell Perry; he received a career-high 178 carries last season as Johnson was limited to nine games and proved he could fill in as the club’s featured back when needed. Ex-Colt DeDe Dorsey, a speedy change-of-pace back, will get limited work, as well. In short-yardage situations, Perry and Watson are the primary options. The Bengals’ ability to get the tough yards ­wasn’t helped by the loss of FB Jeremi Johnson to a season-ending knee injury days before the opener at Baltimore.

August

Aug. 24, 2008   

Bengals' protection breakdowns more than just O-line's problem

Updated 1:21 p.m. EDT, Tuesday, Sept. 2

For as much as Carson Palmer has been beaten up and bloodied, literally, in the preseason, only some of the blame can be pinned on the Bengals’ offensive line. Just as much, if not more, falls on the running backs’ difficulty picking up the blitz and the new receivers not being on the same page as their quarterback. In contrast to last season, the linemen have thus far kept their health and constitute one of the more stable positions on an offense that has been crippled by injury. Because keeping Palmer erect is agenda No. 1 for the offense, RB Chris Perry’s ascension to the featured role ahead of recently cut Rudi Johnson comes with a bit of trepidation for the Bengals, seeing as how he's relatively inexperienced in that department. Still, the team believes he's able enough in pass protection to warrant the starting gig.

Aug. 13, 2008   

Job of Bengals FB Johnson unlikely to be in danger despite conditioning concerns

To hear it from a source close to the club, there has been a noticeable change in Bengals FB Jeremi Johnson's physical appearance ever since head coach Marvin Lewis banished him to the PUP list at the beginning of training camp because of concerns about his conditioning. The way we hear it, the 5-11, 270-pound Johnson has worked hard to get into shape, and he's likely to remain an important part of the offense this season. Johnson is an asset in the red zone and in short-yardage situations, and he catches the ball well for a fullback. Johnson, who turns 28 in September, has had problems with his conditioning before, and it is a concern that must be addressed as his career progresses. But if he can work himself into playing shape this season, he's likely to keep his starting job.

July

July 31, 2008   

Bengals wouldn't dawdle when it came to extending Whitworth's contract

With OLG Andrew Whitworth only two seasons away from free agency, the Bengals moved to sign him for the long term before the start of training camp, giving him a four-year extension reportedly worth $30 million and ensuring he'll be under contract through 2013. Whitworth can also also play left and right tackle, and his versatility would have only enhanced his value were he to have reached unrestricted free agency after the '09 season. The 6-7, 339-pound Whitworth, who's entering his third NFL campaign, is a key part of the Bengals' O-line's present and future plans. It's a position group already undergoing transition, as Stacy Andrews has supplanted veteran Willie Anderson at right tackle. Andrews is a free agent after the season, and re-signing him is likely to be expensive. The re-signing of Whitworth is a wedge against that uncertainty and a nod to Whitworth's versatility and dependability. It's also a victory for the Bengals, who could not retain OLG Eric Steinbach last offseason.

July 26, 2008   

Bengals' lack of interest in Henry may be a nod to cumulative effect of off-field incidents on team

In three seasons with the Bengals, Chris Henry was one of the NFL’s most dangerous No. 3 receivers. On talent alone, he would likely win the job again this season. But the Bengals, who cut Henry in April after his arrest on a misdemeanor assault charge, are not interested in bringing him back, head coach Marvin Lewis said this week, not even after the charge was dismissed against Henry, who is serving an NFL suspension levied in June. The way we hear it, Lewis’ refusal to consider re-signing Henry could signal an implicit admission by the club of the enervating effect the string of off-the-field problems endured by the team in recent years has had on the Bengals’ on-field performance. For now, veterans Marcus Maxwell and Antonio Chatman have the best shot at replacing Henry, with rookies Andre Caldwell and Jerome Simpson playing catch-up as they learn the intricacies of Bob Bratkowski’s offense.

July 18, 2008   

Bengals may employ more of a ball-control attack

With RB Rudi Johnson returning to full strength after having fought a hamstring injury last season and Chris Perry back in the fold after missing the '07 campaign with an ankle injury, the Bengals have the makings of a deep, talented backfield. And they will also have reason to put the ball in the air a little less this season, the way we hear it. Among AFC teams, only pass-happy New England threw more than Cincinnati did last season. The Bengals can still air it out when necessary, but more of an emphasis on the ground game is expected. You can expect the backs to be active in the passing game, too, especially Perry and Kenny Watson, both of whom catch the ball exceptionally well.

July 4, 2008   

Jones poised to push veteran CB O'Neal

Look for Bengals CB David Jones to push for playing time in the Bengals’ nickel and dime defenses after a strong showing in offseason workouts. Jones, a fifth-round pick of the Saints in the 2007 draft, signed with Cincinnati after being released by New Orleans last summer. The Bengals, who played the Saints last August, liked what they saw of Jones, and we hear they have liked the way he’s taken to new defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer’s scheme. Jones’ primary competitor is veteran Deltha O’Neal, who lost his starting job last season and has struggled with consistency throughout his career. However, O’Neal, 31, has a significant experience edge on Jones, and he boasts impressive natural ability.

June

June 25, 2008   

RB Johnson, FB Johnson under pressure to perform

The Bengals’ starting backfield enters the 2008 season with something to prove. RB Rudi Johnson comes off the worst season of his career, and FB Jeremi Johnson is under pressure to pick up his play. The way we hear it, Rudi Johnson looks bigger and stronger after hamstring problems limited him to only 11 games in ’07 and were a big reason why he gained a career-low 2.9 yards per carry. Jeremi Johnson’s weight has long been a hot-button issue, but a source close to the club would be surprised if he surrendered his starting job to upstart Daniel Coats. At his best, the 5-11, 260-pound Johnson mixes better-than-expected athleticism with the bulk required for the position.

June 20, 2008   

Collins working closely with Johnson, Bengals' receivers

One of the more interesting developments from the Bengals’ latest minicamp, the way we hear it, was the presence of Charles Collins, who coached Chad Johnson and Panthers WR Steve Smith at Santa Monica Junior College. Collins is working with the Bengals through training camp thanks to the NFL’s Minority Coaching Fellowship Program. Collins has worked with all of the Bengals’ receivers, but the way we hear it, his strong relationship with Johnson is seen as a major benefit to the club, which is determined to make things work with the mercurial wide receiver. Johnson had surgery to remove bone spurs from his right ankle this week, but he reportedly is expected to be ready for the start of training camp.

June 6, 2008   

FS White hopes film work pays off

May

May 30, 2008   

TE Utecht could take some catches from talented WR tandem

The way we hear it, TE Ben Utecht could quietly cut into the number of catches that starting WRs Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh make this season. Utecht, a former role player in Indianapolis' potent offense, is the most capable receiver the Bengals have had at the position in head coach Marvin Lewis' six seasons with the club. Don't be surprised if Utecht becomes one of QB Carson Palmer's top targets on 3rd-and-short situations — scenarios in which Houshmandzadeh has thrived over the years. Utecht's catch total may also get a boost if a clear-cut No. 3 receiver does not emerge. Rookies Jerome Simpson and Andre Caldwell are in the mix for the job, as are veterans Antonio Chatman, Doug Gabriel and Glenn Holt.

May 21, 2008   

Thurman's release again puts LB depth in spotlight

Less than a month after he was reinstated by the NFL, LB Odell Thurman was released by the Bengals on Monday. The way we hear it, Thurman's attendance at the Bengals' offseason workouts was not as frequent as the team would have hoped, and that likely played a role in the club's decision. “The NFL provided Odell the opportunity to earn his way back onto our team, but we have not seen the right steps taken by him,” Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis said Monday. “With our offseason work in progress and new talent added at our linebacker position, we’ve determined it’s best to keep moving in a direction that does not include Odell.” With Thurman out of the picture, the Bengals' LB depth takes a hit. Rookie Keith Rivers is the likely starter on the weak side, with veteran Dhani Jones the favorite to start in the middle and Ahmad Brooks and Rashad Jeanty the top options on the strong side. But the Bengals do not have many proven options at linebacker beyond those players. Were Thurman to have made a successful return in Cincinnati, such depth worries would have been less of an issue.

May 16, 2008   

LB Brooks moves outside; Jeanty his primary competition

The Bengals have moved Ahmad Brooks to outside linebacker, a move that gives them more size on the strong side. Brooks, once penciled in as the Bengals’ middle linebacker of the future, is likely to compete with Rashad Jeanty for a starting job. A 2006 supplemental draft selection, Brooks does not lack for talent, but he has not put it together in two NFL seasons. He missed most of last season with a groin injury. Injuries also affected Jeanty last season; he sat out games with shin and knee ailments. However, he is strong vs. the run, and he will not be a pushover in the battle for the job, the way we hear it. In any event, a healthy Brooks and Jeanty would do wonders for the Bengals' LB depth.

May 2, 2008   

Bengals to give LB Rivers a look in middle, on weak side

The Bengals are likely to give first-round pick Keith Rivers looks at both weak-side and middle linebacker, the way we hear it. Rivers, who started on the weak side at USC, is likely to play a major role on defense in his rookie season, from all accounts. Rivers’ high skill level, strong character and advanced football intelligence have the Bengals thinking big things; the hope is that Rivers’ learning curve is accelerated because of these factors. However, we’re told they will take care not to overload the rookie with responsibilities and will be keeping a close eye on his training-camp progress. The selection of Rivers underscores the Bengals’ commitment to a stronger depth chart at the position following an ’07 season marked by poor play and injuries. Talented but untested Ahmad Brooks, who started only two games in the middle before suffering a season-ending groin injury, is back, further bolstering the team’s options. Former starting MLB Odell Thurman also returns after two years on league suspension, but his ability to contribute is a mystery for now.

April

April 23, 2008   

LB Thurman is reinstated, but role is unclear

The reinstatement of LB Odell Thurman gives the Bengals improved depth — and a dose of intrigue — at a position where the team struggled to have enough healthy bodies a season ago. When last seen in regular-season play in the 2005 season, Thurman was one of the Bengals’ best defensive players, a fleet-footed, sure tackler who was strong in pass coverage and could often make up for his mistakes with his speed. Thurman, who will only be 25 years old at the start of the ’08 season, could, at the very least, help the Bengals’ special-teams coverage units if he still is an NFL-caliber athlete after two years away from the game. At best, he could be an impact player for a defense that is lacking in that category. One thing appears clear: The Bengals are taking a wait-and-see approach with Thurman. Said head coach Marvin Lewis: “It is now up to Odell to continue to meet all NFL guidelines, and to maintain a standard of personal responsibility that will allow him the chance to compete for a spot on our team.”

April 11, 2008   

Gabriel has shot at being Bengals' No. 3 WR

WR Doug Gabriel didn’t play a regular-season game with an NFL club last season, but he will have a chance to be the Bengals’ No. 3 wideout, the way we hear it. In 2004 and ’05, Gabriel carved a niche as a vertical threat with Oakland, averaging at least 15 yards a catch in both seasons. The Patriots, then in need of WR help, acquired him before the ’06 season, but he was a disappointment, catching only 25 passes in 12 games before being cut. He re-signed with Oakland and then was released before the ’07 season. One of Gabriel’s keys to making the roster will be his special-teams play. Glenn Holt and Antonio Chatman, his primary competition for a spot on the WR depth chart, are assets on special teams. Gabriel has 86 career kickoff returns and a kickoff-return touchdown to his credit, but his play on the Bengals’ coverage units figures to also be key. One other factor to keep in mind: Whoever wins the No. 3 WR job will probably be fourth in the receivers’ pecking order in terms of passes thrown their way. WRs Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh will be targeted most, of course, but don’t forget about former  Colts TE Ben Utecht, who will also be an important part of the offense.

April 3, 2008   

Release of Henry makes Bengals' need for improved WR depth more pressing

Updated at 1:37 p.m. EST on April 3, 2008

The way we hear it, it will not be a surprise if the Bengals draft a wide receiver who can also return kickoffs and punts. The team’s WR depth is shaky beyond starters Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh. The competition for the No. 3 WR role could be wide open after Chris Henry was released on Thursday after yet another off-field incident. The Bengals really need a lift on punt returns; they averaged less than five yards per return last season, and their longest return went for only 19 yards. A rookie punt returner would probably compete with veterans Antonio Chatman and Glenn Holt but might ultimately rate an edge considering the team’s struggles in this area last season. Holt is a serviceable kickoff returner who does not have much long speed. With 10 draft picks, including four untradable compensatory selections, the addition of at least one, if not more, wide receivers seems likely.

March

March 28, 2008   

Bengals want to sign Houshmandzadeh to extension

WR Chad Johnson missed the start of offseason workouts, leading to more speculation about his future with the club. Johnson has indicated numerous times that he’s unhappy with the Bengals, who are inclined to take a wait-and-see approach as the latest round of controversy plays out. In short, no trade for Johnson is imminent. The other interesting absentee from the workouts was WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh, who has one year left on his contract. We’re hearing the Bengals would like to sign Houshmandzadeh, 30, to a contract extension. Houshmandzadeh, whose 112 receptions tied for the NFL lead in 2007, is regarded as one of the best possession receivers in the league, and his value may never be higher, considering his production in recent seasons. 

March 21, 2008   

Andrews signs franchise tender; Bengals want to sign him long term

C-OG Stacy Andrews signed his franchise tender on Wednesday, but the team will try to sign him to a long-term deal. At present, Andrews is without a defined position — although right tackle, should Willie Anderson fail to stay healthy, or left guard, should Andrew Whitworth struggle, are his most likely landing spots. To hear it from a rival assistant coach, the Bengals will be hard-pressed to construct a lineup without the 6-7, 342-pound Andrews, given his striking athleticism for a man of his size and the improvement he showed down the stretch in 2007. If Andrews continues to improve and hits free agency after the ’08 season, he figures to draw significant attention, the way we hear it.

March 14, 2008   

Bengals' personnel losses were expected

As expected, the Bengals have endured some personnel losses in free agency, with three defensive starters — LB Landon Johnson, DE Justin Smith and S Madieu Williams — headlining the departures. But it’s worth noting that the Bengals, from what we’re hearing, were somewhat ambivalent about Johnson and Williams, steady starters on a string of below-average defenses. The Bengals and Johnson could never quite get close enough to strike a deal, and when the Panthers offered him the opportunity to become their weak-side linebacker, he didn’t turn it down. Williams, who has flashed star ability at times but isn’t especially durable, was going to be difficult to keep, and the Vikings — whose defensive coordinator, Leslie Frazier, worked with Williams early in his Cincinnati career — paid him handsomely. The Bengals added only one defensive starter, DE Antwan Odom, in the first two weeks of free agency, but they also re-signed LB Dhani Jones, who quickly made an impression on the Bengals last season with his play and how he fit in the locker room. The Bengals also signed Cardinals OLB Darryl Blackstock, a 2005 third-round pick who has shown some pass-rush ability and can also contribute on special teams. We hear the Bengals continue to keep tabs on Jets DT Dewayne Robertson, who may be cut if he isn’t traded.

March 7, 2008   

Bengals sign Odom to bolster pass rush; Robertson may still be in play

The signing of Titans DE Antwan Odom somewhat took the sting out of a tough four-day stretch at the outset of free agency for the Bengals. The addition of Odom is also an indication, the way we hear it, that the Bengals aren’t going to abandon their 4-3 base defense. Odom, 26, had eight sacks last season, six more than Justin Smith, whom he’ll replace in the Bengals’ lineup. Smith is regarded as the better all-around player, but Odom’s pass-rush ability made him one of the more coveted free agents on the market. With Odom in the fold, look for defensive tackle to be a position addressed by the Bengals in the draft, and likely early. Cincinnati has twice attempted to acquire veteran free-agent tackles via trade in the past week only to have the deals fall through at the last minute. A potential deal for Lions DT Shaun Rogers collapsed on the first day off free agency, allowing the Browns to swoop in and complete a deal with Detroit for the talented but enigmatic defensive tackle. Early this week, Cincinnati’s proposed deal for Jets DT Dewayne Robertson hit a snag when Robertson and the club could not come to an agreement on a contract restructuring. Head coach Marvin Lewis has indicated that a deal for Robertson remains a possibility. The Jets are trying to move Robertson, who has not been a good fit in Eric Mangini’s defense.

February

Feb. 29, 2008   

Switch to 3-4 could be in cards for Bengals

Updated at 10:30 p.m. EST Friday, Feb. 29

The word at the Scouting Combine was that the Bengals are seriously contemplating a move to a 3-4 base defense. How this affects their plans in the draft and free agency is unclear. The reported acquisition of Lions DT Shaun Rogers would have given them a potential big, playmaking nose tackle, but as of Friday evening, the deal appeared to have hit a snag. Regardless of what happens with Rogers, the Bengals could add another front-seven player, perhaps a defensive lineman like USC's Sedrick Ellis, with the No. 9 overall pick. They will also be counting on third-year DE Frostee Rucker to contribute more than he had in his first two NFL seasons, especially with Justin Smith likely to sign elsewhere. DT Domata Peko could play end or nose tackle in a 3-4 scheme, with fellow DT John Thornton perhaps sliding to defensive end. The Bengals' plans for the LB corps are also up in the air. In a 3-4 scheme, Robert Geathers has the athleticism and pass-rush ability to play outside linebacker. Ahmad Brooks and newly re-signed Dhani Jones could be slated to start inside in a four-LB set. 

Feb. 22, 2008   

With eye on future of O-line, Bengals give Andrews the franchise tag

Why would the Bengals give OT-OG Stacy Andrews — a player who's started only 17 games in his first four seasons — the franchise tag? Several reasons. ORT Willie Anderson turns 33 in July and played only seven games last season because of foot and knee injuries. Anderson will play in 2008, but he's nearing the end of a long, distinguished run with the Bengals. Andrews can also fill in for Levi Jones at left tackle should Jones' knee problems resurface. Andrews may begin the '08 season as a reserve, but his ability to play inside or outside is very valuable to the Bengals. In short, they could not afford to let him hit the free-agent market. The Bengals will now work to sign him to a contract extension that could lower his '08 salary-cap figure (the Bengals extended a one-year, $7.455 million tender to him upon designating him their franchise player) and likely keep him in the fold for several more seasons.

Feb. 13, 2008   

Will Johnson put Bengals in a tough spot?

Chad Johnson's future in Cincinnati has become one of the biggest stories of the offseason to date. His appearance at the Pro Bowl made waves, as he blew off print reporters after his first practice in Hawaii and reportedly had an incident with an NFL public-relations assistant. On Tuesday, The Washington Post reported the Redskins were interested in dealing for Johnson. All of this begs the question: Will the Bengals feel compelled to trade Johnson simply to end the distractions? The way we hear it, the Bengals haven't reached that point. Most importantly, they would reportedly take an $8 million salary-cap hit for trading Johnson. A resolution whereby Johnson stays with the Bengals still looks like the most probable scenario. A couple of factors to keep in mind, per a source close to the club: Johnson loves football, so a holdout that takes him away from the game is unlikely. What's more, the Bengals have been proactive in trying to keep Johnson happy previously. However, the team gave Johnson a new contract two years ago, and it's unclear whether it would be willing to revisit his deal now.

January

Jan. 30, 2008   

Thurman working out with Bengals; future up in air, but not without hope

The NFL’s decision to allow suspended MLB Odell Thurman to start working out with the Bengals once again doesn’t necessarily clear the way for Thurman to become a part of the team’s 2008 plans. “Odell remains on the league’s suspended list, and it remains to be seen whether he will be able to meet the conditions for reinstatement,” Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis said in a team-issued statement. “If he is reinstated, he will then have to earn the confidence of our management and coaching staff that he is ready to compete for a roster spot as an active member of our team.” The team has said there is no timetable for Thurman’s reinstatement. However, if he’s back, we’ve heard he has a chance to be a contributor on a defense that needs playmakers. Were Thurman to come back, his role might change considering that the Bengals like third-year MLB Ahmad Brooks’ potential.