kpholmes Posted March 3, 2009 Share Posted March 3, 2009 Per PFT BENGALS BRING BACK BENSONPosted by Mike Florio on March 3, 2009, 4:03 p.m. The Cincinnati Bengals have announced that running back Cedric Benson has re-signed with the team. Joe Reedy of the Cincinnati Enquirer reports that it’s a two-year, $7 million deal. “Cedric was a great addition for us last year,” coach Marvin Lewis said. “And we’re looking to see him pick up right where he left off.” The Bears picked Benson with the fourth overall selection in the 2005 draft. But they cut him after two arrests in less than a month last year. He found no takers, and the Bengals eventually gave him a shot. Though his per-carry average was in the realm of Reggie Bush, Benson came on as the year unfolded, moving the chains even without much of a passing game. “Cedric was recognized as an elite talent coming out of college,” Lewis said. “His years in Chicago weren’t what he hoped for, but he was able to give us a lift on the field and be a great presence in the locker room. He earned everyone’s respect, and we’re excited to let him continue to grow in our system.” Derrick Ward visited the Bengals in the early days of free agency, but we’d heard that Benson was their top priority. Apparently, a free-agent trip to Houston by Benson prompted the Bengals to get it done. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ziachild007 Posted March 4, 2009 Share Posted March 4, 2009 I wouldn't have minded him pairing up with Slaton for a good 1-2 punch. But Cincy is a better fit for both of them from a fantasy perspective. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
irish Posted March 4, 2009 Share Posted March 4, 2009 Yeah I read this the other day and thought it was a good deal for all involved, including fantasy owners. If Benson signed with Houston then that would've limited Slaton's value. The deal is only for 2 years and is hardly starting RB money. Benson will have to prove himself and pick up where he improved last year and then the Bengals would have the option to revisit things and sign him for a longer time frame. If Benson falls on his face the Bengals can just toss him aside. Being that the contract is what it is, I anticipate the Bengals bringing in another RB be it in FA or more likely by drafting a rookie to compete with Benson or at the very least be a fall back option. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Randall Posted March 4, 2009 Share Posted March 4, 2009 I don't like Benson but thought he looked good last year. He probably has too many friends that would be bad influences in Houston. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bengal Mania Posted March 4, 2009 Share Posted March 4, 2009 For the price, I think it's a great signing. If he comes anywhere close to the value of what the NFL "thought" he might be, this is a serious steal (which would be a nice change, since the Bengals usually only get near a "steal" when discussing the off-field antics of some players) If he's average, he's getting paid an average salary. If he sucks or doesn't play nice with the local police, then you haven't broken the bank and wasted a LOT of $$ With a healthy Palmer, and with a healthy rejuvenated attitude by Benson (he has done ALL the right things since coming here last year), I think this is great. I also love that it's two years. I think this will help Benson stay focused and produce, because if he does, there is one more big contract in his future, in only two years (whether that is with Cincy or not) Now on to one of the other many things that need to be addressed! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
The Irish Doggy Posted March 5, 2009 Share Posted March 5, 2009 I expect the Bengals will draft a RB in rounds 2-4. I feel real good about an OT at 1.6 now that Coles and Benson are signed. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BeeR Posted March 5, 2009 Share Posted March 5, 2009 For the price, I think it's a great signing.If he comes anywhere close to the value of what the NFL "thought" he might be, this is a serious steal (which would be a nice change, since the Bengals usually only get near a "steal" when discussing the off-field antics of some players) If he's average, he's getting paid an average salary. If he sucks or doesn't play nice with the local police, then you haven't broken the bank and wasted a LOT of $$ With a healthy Palmer, and with a healthy rejuvenated attitude by Benson (he has done ALL the right things since coming here last year), I think this is great. I also love that it's two years. I think this will help Benson stay focused and produce, because if he does, there is one more big contract in his future, in only two years (whether that is with Cincy or not) Now on to one of the other many things that need to be addressed! Agree Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Wolverines Fan Posted March 5, 2009 Share Posted March 5, 2009 I can see Benson being a great "sleeper". Agree. As a Bears homer, I keep having this thought that Benson will be in the top 5 in the AFC in rushing this year. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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