Cincinnati Looking to Add More Injury-Prone Running Backs to Their Roster

As ifthe injury-riddled Chris Perry, Kenny Irons and Rudi Johnson weren't enough for Cincinnati to contend with last season, Bengals.com is reporting that the recently-released Shaun Alexander could be visiting the town of three rivers early next week.

Alexander's ethical and spiritual behavior is well-documented, so this could be why some are deaming this move a "bad fit." Other reasons may be in line with the fact that the Bengals desperately need to bolster their defense instead of worrying about adding yet another running back to their roster - regardless of name.

Bengals.com is quick to point out the character issue:

His strengths are that he's a solid guy, adds another dimension in the passing game with terrific hands, has had tremendous production in the past, and his wrist is apparently healed.

I would put that first on the list as well.

The days of MVP Alexander are long gone, but given the fact that Kenny Watson looked like Ickey Woods last season could mean potential big-games. Of course, this also means that the team would have to release at least one of their current running backs. Maybe more if Dede Dorsey is even considered to be one of those at this point.

Alexander to visit [Bengals.com]

Bengals Fans: The World Is Against Us!

The NFL Free Agency period is off and running. I could attempt to recap what went down this past weekend, but a quick Google search or a trip to NFL.com can give you all of the details. But with that said, one deal has stuck out so far: That involving defensive tackle Shaun Rodgers.

You see, Rodgers was supposedly all but packed for his relocation to Cincinnati, but the NFL had other ideas. The defensive tackle was going to be dealt to Cincy for a third and fifth round draft pick, but the office of the NFL rescinded the offer - with the sticking point having something to do with Rodgers' roster bonus?

Either way, the big man is on his way to Cleveland for a third-round selection, and cornerback Leigh Bodden. And Bengals fans are not happy.

Here's just a snippet of the comments that could be found at the Bengals Blog over at the Cincinnati Inquirer:

at 2/29/2008
10:35 PM Anonymous said...
Just an excuse for the NFL to get back at the Bengals for past problems.

at 2/29/2008
10:36 PM Anonymous said...
There's only two scenarios here and both are horrible:
1) Bengals front office works on a trade all day and doesn't make it work under league ules. So in this case they are overmatched and incompetent. 2) The league really does have it out for the Brown family and Bengals (handling Odell, unfair suspensions, this trade) Either option makes me want to give up the NFL.

at 2/29/2008
10:45 PM John said...
Ah, the Bungles strike again. If the Browns signed Rogers this will be very bad. If so Goodell, the NFL and the rest for nixing the deal. Looks like 1 more year of false hope. thanks Roger, u b@stard.

at 3/01/2008
8:02 AM Anonymous said...
You state that the trades can only involve draft choices, how can the Browns deal involve a current player and be valid? Not being a conspiracy theorist, but it seems like the commissioner's office has gone out of its way over the last year to screw over the Bengals at any opportunity. Didn't know the commissioners office was on the schedule every year.

So, just to recap a few of these...

Roger Goodell obviously has it in for the Bengals because of a few character issues that can be found on their roster. In fact, he's their 17th game - believe it or not.

Thus, he nixed a trade that would benefit the team to even up the score a bit. A score set by guys like Chris Henry and Odell Thurman. Speaking of Thurman, the handling of his off-field issues is apparently "unfair," as well as other suspensions handed to the team. Evidently, multiple arrests and drug issues are just par for the course. And if they aren't, the Commish will find a way to "get back" at whichever teams employ players that "lack judgment."

Jeff Fisher may want to keep his eye out for this. You never know when further Pacman-related punishments will go down.

League Stops Rogers Trade To Bengals [Cincinnati Inquirer]

Cincinnati Bengals: Rudi Johnson, Insufficient

After several seasons of incredibly consistent numbers, the Cincinnati Bengals (and fantasy owners alike) were significantly disappointed in the year that was produced by running back Rudi Johnson.

Though the Bengals offense was in the top 10 by the end of the 2007 season, the run game was a dismal 24th after generating only 97.3 yards per game. In fact, the team topped 100 yards only five times - and this is thanks to reserve running back Kenny Watson.

Watson's presence was the saving grace for much of the Bengals running attack, but his presence was pretty much by default thanks to injuries to Chris Perry and rookie Kenny Irons.

The Cincinnati Enquirer points out that this is obviously an area that needs to be addressed in the offseason. Without getting into the specifics of players either via draft or free agency, but the run-game is the biggest blip on the radar.

"It's obvious. We have to generate more in the run game," said offensive coordinator Bob Bratkowski. "In addition, we need to develop a little bit better consistency."

Given the fact that the Bengals failed to top 20 points in seven games this season, resulting in a 7-9 record, I think that Bratkowski may be on to something. Otherwise, that "something" may be unemployment papers - at least he'll have Marvin Lewis to keep him company.


Running Game Needed [Cincinnati Enquirer]

Ocho Cinco Feels "Mistreated?"

In a season where Chad Johnson was supposed to be "bringing sexy back," the Bengals had one of the worst seasons in recent history - drawing criticism of both the coaching staff and the players involved.

An ESPN interview with former loud-mouthed receiver Keyshawn Johnson caught the ire of many fans as the pot was calling out the kettle in many instances, as the retired Johnson was targeting the All-Pro Johnson for his team's demise.

Well, in a recent interview on ESPN's Mike and Mike in the Morning, Chad Johnson exclaimed that he felt mistreated by the Bengals organization, as no one stepped up to his defense when fingers were being pointed.

Johnson went on to say that the team should then "further itself from the problem," hinting that a trade demand was on the horizon, if not already on the table.

In 2006, Johnson signed a six-year deal for $35.5 million. Though hauling in 93 passes for over 1,400 yards this season, it has become evident that "CJ" was not the go-to receiver for the Bengals anymore, as teammate T.J. Houshmandzadeh caught 112 passes for 1,100 yards and 12 touchdowns (Johnson had eight).

Recent news of Houshmandzadeh's contract has hit the wires as the Bengals reportedly plan on reworking his current deal of four years and $13 million, which was signed back in 2005. The final straw for the organization, as well as Johnson, may have been the fact that Houshmandzadeh was named to the Pro Bowl this season, and Johnson was not, despite being third in the NFL in receive yards.

(Cincinnati Enquirer)

Edwards and Cribbs: On to Hawaii

While the Browns still have two [regular season] games remaining, the Pro Bowl rosters that were released yesterday have this fan pretty excited. While I tried my best to lobby for both Braylon Edwards and Derek Anderson to be named to the squad, I will be more than happy to settle for Edwards and teammate Josh Cribbs as they were both named to represent the AFC - and deservedly so.

Yes, it would be nice to have more than two players recognized for the season that the Browns have produced thus far, but let's focus on the good stuff here - we the Browns haven't had a member named to this team since 2001. Kellen Winslow, Joe Thomas, Eric Steinbach and Derek Anderson were all worthy of making the squad. In fact, each of these guys could likely play anyways as they were named as first alternates.

This should be the season that garners the O-Line and our quarterback some recognition. Next year, the media will finally pay attention from the beginning, opposed to just penciling in Ben Roethlisberger and Johnathon Ogden's names out of the gate.

Now let's focus on the Bengals...

(Side note: How stacked is the AFC this season where Wes Welker's 96 receptions for 1,000 yards and eight TDs isn't good enough to make the team?)

Morning YouTubeness: Go Cincinnati

With only two wins on the season, and a baseball team that left a little to be desired, this "Cincinnati" fan deserves some face time. He's not necessarily a Bengals fan. Or a Reds fan. Just a Cincinnati fan.

Bob Huggins would be proud. And drunk.



Rock on.

He's Baaaaack

Dare I use the "sky is blue, grass is green" line?

The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that Bengals wide reciever Chris Henry has found his way back to a court room today. This time, for a possible probation violation.

Henry is on probation in Orange County, Fla., stemming from a weapons charge there following a incident in January 2006.

Word around the courthouse is that prosecutors are trying to have Henry put in jail, even for a few days, based on the seriousness of the original crime.

The report continues to discuss the possible ramifications if Roger Goodell gets to act on this recent news. If you recall, Henry is still waiting to play in his first game of the season after receiving an eight-game suspension due to a slew of other "issues."

Henry orignally had hoped to have the suspension reduced to four games, but after this recent incident, it looks like Henry will be fortunate to get away with the eight he was dealt.

In other quick Bengals news, cornerback Johnathan Joseph has been suspended for the upcoming game after a marijuana conviction from last January.

Those crazy Bengals. I tell ya.

Henry has probation hearing [Cincinnati Enquirer]

Vegas Loves The AFC North

With week five in the books, NFL fans can now turn to the other "books." The Sportsbooks.

Opening lines bring us only two double-digit spreads, with the majority of lines being decided by field goals. Most of which, will have timeouts called right before the first snap. Shanahan.

Five of the 12 available betting odds are either three or 3.5 points - I say "available" as the New England/Dallas match-up is currently off the board.

One glaring portion of the boards is the fact that each of the teams in the AFC North are favored over their opponent for the week. The Pittsburgh Steelers hit a bye week, but the three teams looking to make up some ground all have great games to look forward to.

BALTIMORE (-10) vs. St. Louis
CLEVELAND (-5.5) vs. Miami
Cincinnati (-3) vs. KANSAS CITY

It should be mentioned that despite being 2-3, the Browns have yet to be favored in any game thus far in the season. What should also be discusses is the fact that the Baltimore Ravens failed to score 10 points total in last week's game against the San Francisco 49ers.

If you would've told me five weeks ago that Cincy was only giving three points to Kansas City, I would've been all over it. Arrowhead is a tough place to play, but if the Jags offense can beat them by 10, you have to think Cincy can do the same? Right?

Yahoo! Sports: Live Odds [Yahoo!]

Andra Davis: Monetary Fine > Chad Johnson

With the Browns coming off of a win over their division rival Cincinnati Bengals this past weekend, most of the news coming out of the media and bloggers alike involved wide receiver Chad Johnson jumping into the Dawg Pound - the area of seating located in the Western end zone at Cleveland Stadium.

Mark Bishop, a Cleveland-based radio host, had the chance to sit down with Browns linebacker Andra Davis on Tuesday, and the following conversation took place:

Bishop: Was Chad Johnson dissing us? Your thoughts on the Chad Johnson incident, we'll call it.

Davis: I think it was definitely disrespect. I told him before the game that if I was out there on the field that he better not try to jump on the Dawg Pound because that wasn't going to happen. I was dead serious and that was my word, and I put that on my kids. I wasn't going to let that happen...

...The touchdown that he scored, he was on the opposite end. If he would've jumped in, I was going to run in there after him. I probably would've gotten fined for it, but I wasn't going to let him disrespect the home field like that.

The interview, which can be found here, later went on to call Johnson an "entertainer," but Davis said that an opposing player jumping into the Pound is likened to "coming in to your own house and kissing your wife."

Now if jumping into the hands of "Big Dawg" (pictured above) is the same as kissing anyone's wife, I definitely feel sorry for said husband.

The real story here is that Davis would've taken a fine, which would've likely resulted in quite an altercation, had he been on the field during Johnson's second touchdown of the game. It's unlikely that these words will carry over to the next time Cleveland and Cincinnati lock up, but other opposing players may want to take note as further attempts to make it into the Pound may have to be through a 250 lb. linebacker. Or if Leigh Bodden would prevent touchdown passes...but that's a whole other story.

Holy Offense

Given the atrocity that took place last week, it's pretty safe to say that the Cleveland Browns' offensive explosion on week 2 surprised a few people - including the 11 players on the Cincinnati defense.



Someone may want to find Charlie Frye to make sure he didn't jump out of a window yesterday afternoon.

No Frostee On Opening Day

In comparison to last year, the Cincinnati Bengals have been pretty well-behaved this offseason. It appears that one Frostee Rucker has other ideas.

FOXSports reports that the Bengals defensive end will be suspended for the opening week game against the Ravens due to pleading guilty to a few charges back in May.

You see, Rucker was handed 36 months of probation after getting into quite the altercation with an ex-girlfriend. Said spat featured what is being considered "false imprisonment" and "vandalism." Something that probably fell in Rucker's favor was the dropping of the spousal battery charges. Those typically don't go over well.

No word on if the arguement started due to making fun of the name "Frostee."

The suspension will cost Rucker a reported $21,000. Oh, and don't fret...Rucker too found the lord.

"We'll just see how it goes," Rucker said. "It's pretty much in someone else's hands right now. All I can do is continue to grow as a player. If I get it, I didn't. If I don't, thank the Lord and I'm going to play as hard as I can [against Baltimore]."

This Lord guy sure is pretty popular these days.

Maybe He Meant "88?"

When the Bengals play the Falcons, there's one certainty in the match-up: Chad Johnson and DeAngelo Hall exchanging blows.

ESPN reported several bouts that featured Johnson sending autographed books to the Falcons, with Hall sending Johnson an autographed jersey featuring "I Own You" written on the back.

Hall took the "owning" a bit further by shaving it in to the back of his dome for all to see. Fortunately, Brothers Mottram got a freeze frame of the artwork. Unfortunately, Johnson caught five passes for 85 yards and a touchdown - all in the first half. Couple this with the fact that the touchdown catch began with Hall covering Johnson, and ended with CJ shaking him right off of the screen before the reception and it wasn't one of Hall's best nights.

Had DeAngleo just left the shave-job as an "88," Tab Perry's one reception for five yards would've looked a lot better. Just sayin'.

Morning YouTubeness: Look At The Bird

Good morning, readers.

I'm not sure if I was alone in the fact that I wanted to nearly mute my television last night due to the non-stop Michael Vick discussions, but this may have made up for it. Now I'm not exactly sure how Chris Mortensen was confused for a guy named "Steve Berman," but watching this mascot wrecking some pee-wee football players was pretty good stuff. Enjoy.

Discrimination Likes To Party

I'm actually surprised that this story has taken a month to develop. Oft-troubled linebacker Odell Thurman has reportedly filed a discrimination claim against the NFL, a month after his request for reinstatement was denied by commissioner Roger Goodell.

Thurman allegedly believes that the NFL is discriminating against him because they feel that he is an alcoholic. Why would they think he has a problem with alcohol? Possibly dating back to his September 25, 2006 arrest where his blood alcohol level was over twice the legal limit for the state of Ohio.

Now, I'm aware that legal limits aren't hard to surpass, but when you're almost 250 lbs. and are registering twice the limit, you've had a few drinks.

The suit being claimed sites an old case regarding a former NBA player who supposedly passed all necessary substance abuse tests and was still banned.

Now back up a bit. While Thurman may have a case here, his reinstatement was denied on June 25th of 2007. Only 20 days prior, Thurman was being sought in Georgia for the assault of two other men. Witnesses claimed different stories, making the situation a bit dicey - but since when does Goodell need charges to suspend a player? If the NFL can prove that it was his past that has kept him out of the league, and not the supposed bout with alcohol, this will likely fly over faster than a Rex Grossman pass.

(ProFootballTalk)

Your Morning Johnson Fix

While Peyton Manning and company took the limelight of preseason games last night, Carson Palmer's Bengals played against John Kitna's Lions locked horns about 1,200 miles north.

The aformentioned QBs didn't see a lot of time, with Palmer completing seven of 10 passes, and Kitna throwing five, completing three.

The highlight of the game (which ended in a 27-26 win for Detroit, as if it even matters) was all of the "__ . JOHNSON" jerseys that littered the field. A quick run-down of the Johnsons follows...

Rudi Johnson, the ever-so-large running back for the Bengals ran the ball five times, for a total of 32 yards - 6.4 yards per carry for you math majors. Significantly better totals than Kenny Irons (rumored to take a few snaps from Johnson this season) and his 17 yards on four carries. Couple that with a knee injury, and it just wasn't a good night for the rookie.

After Palmer threw his 10 passes, Doug Johnson entered the game - shocking thousands who thought that he had retired years ago. He actually threw 20 passes, completing 11 for 150 yards and a touchdown. He also threw a pick, but we're focusing on the positive here.

Bengals wide receiver Chad Johnson caught two balls. He would've had three, but was rocked on one, resulting in an incomplete pass. His two successful receptions totaled 40 yards, which isn't too, too bad.

His colleague on the other team Calvin Johnson also caught two passes. Not to be outdone by Chad, Calvin's totaled 45 yards, but neither found the end zone as preseason touchdowns are apparently saved for guys named "Bellamy" and "McDonald."

Larry Johnson could not be reached for comment.

Note to AFC East: Load Up On Tomatoes

The big news out of Bills camp today is that rookie running back Dwayne Wright is recovering from possible food poisoning that is reported to have taken place on August 6th.

Wright, a 230 lb. lad, had an allergic reaction to something he had eaten and woke up on the 7th with a swollen lip and jaw.

"Oh yeah, it was a scary thing," Wright said. "But no problems. I'm here ready to work."

Apparrently, Wright is allergic to avocados and tomatoes, one of which is believed to have been in a wrap that was consumed on the 6th.

Good news for the big guy, as he'll look to be a part of one of the younger backfields in the NFL.

Meanwhile, look for Joey Porter to use the "tomatoes" excuse when asked how Levi Jones woke up with a swollen lip and jaw in Las Vegas.

Fun For Chad, Opponents...Not So Much

If there's one thing I love about the NFL, it's Chad Johnson. Save your "he's not good for the game" arguments because you don't like end zone dances and media-face interviews. He's great. Regardless of how fans feel about him, even the casual fan knows who the guy is. Mohawks, Spanish, or "Don't Fine Me" signs, the guy is pure entertainment.

Well, it didn't take long for Chad to hit up the media after a recent practice. A few drops of science later and we already have a guarantee.

"Week 1, if I touch the end zone you will laugh for a lifetime. I guarantee you," said the Cincinnati Bengals Pro Bowl wide receiver Monday. "Marvin (Lewis) might sit me down for the next game but it will live on for a lifetime."

You heard it here fantasy fans - you may be without your big receiver for week 2. Don't put too much hope into this as we've been let down before from end zone promises. Regardless, millions of fans will be awaiting the opening game for the Bengals - which will be against the stout Baltimore Ravens defense. You can bet that Ray Lewis and company are loving this material five weeks in advance.

Johnson went on to say that he would prefer to go back to the days like 2005 where he was "having fun." It just so happens that 2005 was also a career year in terms of output. I'm sure the Bengals would like some "fun" as well, as long as it is accompanied by 1,400 yards and a division title.