SB Nation - Freddie Brown

Bengals sign former draft pick Freddie Brown to the practice squad

Kirkendall — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 17:08:47 -0000

When the Bengals put Chris Henry on Injured Reserve, there was some speculation on what the team could do, which largely depended on what they wanted to do at wide receiver. Do they find a replacement? Do they restock the position after Andre Caldwell? Instead, they re-signed utility offensive lineman Scott Kooistra, giving the Bengals a full 53-man roster. Kooistra is expected to earn $620,000 in 2009.

However, with Henry out for the year, the Bengals felt there was enough of a shortage at the position that they signed former seventh round draft pick Freddie Brown to the practice squad. To make room, they released rookie tackle Gerald Cadogan. Here's a listing of the team's wide receivers under contract and not on IR (like Henry and Antonio Chatman):

Receiver	Roster	Notes
Chad Ochocinco	53-Man Roster	Bengals leading receiver with 44 receptions, 639 yards receiving and five touchdowns.
Laveranues Coles	53-Man Roster	Played in all eight games, caught 22 passes for 227 yards receiving. Tied for second on the team with three touchdowns receiving.
Andre Caldwell	53-Man Roster	Second on the team in most receiving categories. Caught two game winning touchdowns against the Baltimore Ravens (first time) and Pittsburgh Steelers.
Jerome Simpson	53-Man Roster	Yet to be activated in any game this season.
Quan Cosby	53-Man Roster	Primarily a punt returner. Average 12.4 yards-per-return ranks fifth in the NFL with ten punt returns or more.
Maurice Purify	Practice Squad	Caught four passes for 46 yards receiving during the 2009 preseason.
Freddie Brown	Practice Squad	Brown was the 11th pick by the Bengals in 2009 NFL draft, selected 43rd in the seventh round.

Predicting the Cincinnati Bengals' 53-man roster. A look into the minds of CincyJungle writers

Kirkendall — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 14:05:53 -0000

On Friday, Josh (Kirkendall), Craig (A Pragmatic Bengals Fan), Chris (IFChris) and Jake (jsl413) sat in a room and decided to take on the task filling out the 53-man roster. While initially our intended goal was based on prediction, we also set the roster with players that we think makes the team stronger. For example, our more radical idea that might not be on the mind of the Bengals brass, is to take four running backs, two fullbacks and only two tight ends. We thought that keeping four good running backs and two good full backs would make the team far more stronger than simply adding a third tight end that's currently on the roster; or some tight end that another team released. Even if Dorsey is the fourth running back, he's a strong contributor on special teams. So he makes the team stronger, in our minds. Anyway.

Let's get right to it. Here's our 53-man roster.

Quarterback (3)	Carson Palmer	Defensive End (4)	Antwan Odom
	J.T. O'Sullivan		Robert Geathers
	Jordan Palmer		Michael Johnson
			Jonathan Fanene
Running back (4)	Cedric Benson
	Bernard Scott	Defensive Tackle (4)	Pat Sims
	Brian Leonard		Domata Peko
	DeDe Dorsey		Tank Johnson
			Langston Moore
Fullbacks (2)	Jeremi Johnson
	Fui Vakapuna	Linebackers (7)	Keith Rivers
			Dhani Jones
Tight Ends (2)	Daniel Coats		Rey Maualuga
	Chase Coffman		Rashad Jeanty
			Brandon Johnson
Wide Receiver (6)	Chad Ochocinco		Abdul Hodge
	Laveranues Coles		Darryl Blackstock
	Chris Henry
	Andre Caldwell	Secondary (9)	Johnathan Joseph
	Jerome Simpson		Leon Hall
	Quan Cosby		Chris Crocker
			Chinedum Ndukwe
Offensive Line (9)	Andrew Whitworth		Roy Williams
	Bobbie Williams		Kyries Hebert
	Nate Livings		Tom Nelson
	Kyle Cook		Morgan Trent
	Anthony Collins		David Jones
	Andre Smith
	Scott Kooistra	Special Teams (3)	Shayne Graham
	Jonathan Luigs		Kevin Huber
	Dennis Roland		Brad St. Louis

There's several notable players missing. For example, after some debate, we elected to keep Jason Shirley off the roster, thinking he could be a Marvin Lewis project; which could force him on the practice squad if he clears waivers. In our minds, he's just not ready yet. Marvin White missed the cut; not because of anything he did, but we felt others were surpassing him. However, we shouldn't be surprised if he makes the team. Antonio Chatman's history is too much for a roster spot and a debate broke out between keeping Cosby and Maurice Purify. And we all loved Dan Stuka.

Stay with us all day as we analyze the team's roster cuts as they come through.

Here's a transcript of our entire conversation, or round table, that shows how we came to the conclusion on our 53-man roster.

TRANSCRIPT

Josh Kirkendall: We have 75 players and 53 spots. So by the end of the day, we'll be eliminating 22 players. I know you guys agree that quarterback is relatively easy enough. So let's get to the meat and potatoes of the topic. Running back.
Craig: Wow, diving right in.
Jake: Well running back, to me, is going to be Cedric Benson, Brian Leonard, and Bernard Scott. Just a question of if they keep four. They will want to protect Scott, and they went out and traded for Leonard, so they must see something in him
Craig: I agree with Jake, but not on the order. I think it'll be Benson, Scott, and Leonard. If they keep 4, obviously DeDe Dorsey will stick. Odd man out is James Johnson.
Jake: I honestly think we'll see Scott/Leonard split 2nd string duties. They're both pretty good.
Josh: I agree. I think Cedric and Scott are locks. And Scott and Dorsey have the same skillset. So if the team goes with three running backs, then Dorsey is the odd man out. However, if they go four, then do the Bengals only keep Jeremi Johnson at full back? Many, including the coaches, have high praise with Chris Pressley.
Jake: I don't think they'll risk just keeping Johnson at FB. If they do, they'll definitely put Pressley on the practice squad.
Josh: Last year, the Bengals took three running backs and 2 fullbacks.
Craig: As much as I like Vakapuna's ceiling, you can't let go of a guy who bent a friggin' facemask. Pressley has to stay if at all possible.
Josh: Do you think there's a chance that they keep Johnson and Vakapuna, but put Pressley on the practice squad. In terms of exposure, or notoriety, more people recognize Vakapuna's name more than Pressley's.
Craig: I think Hard Knocks may make it tough to sneak Pressley through to the PS, honestly.
Josh: Good point.

(Chris wakes from his slumber)

Chris: So is Kenny Watson done?
Jake: He was cut a while ago.
Chris: (sigh)
Josh: If the Bengals go four running backs, then who is the fullback?
Chris: Fui
Craig: I think, unfortunate as it is, that JJ is the first FB on the roster. Redeemer and all.
Jake: I think Jeremi Johnson is completely capable as long as he keeps in shape. He had a couple of excellent seasons, remember.
Josh: I agree there. JJ makes the squad as the starting fullback.
Chris: From the limited stuff I've seen, I like what Fui brings.
Josh: Now, if the Bengals take three running backs, who is your backup fullback?
Craig: At this point, I think that Pressley is the second man on the roster. The coaches in the meetings said, point blank, that Pressley is the best blocker.
Josh: You've seen on Hard Knocks how much the coaches play his tough style. Didn't Mike Brown ask what a fullback does?
Chris: Wow
Jake: They love physicality. They want to compete with Baltimore and Pittsburgh.
Craig: That's why I hate Johnson being around. There's no reason to not keep Fui and Pressley around. Jake hits it on the head. Pressley gives them the best chance at pancaking the linebacking corps of the AFC North.
Chris: So who's the starter?
Craig: Johnson.
Chris: Gotcha
Josh: An interesting thought is keeping Johnson and Vakapuna and sneak Pressley through Waivers for the practice squad. How many squads are looking for a FB anyway? He might not be that well known. Though I think Craig is right about Hard Knocks documenting him so much. Damned Hard Knocks.

Josh: I had an interesting thought. What if the Bengals go with four running backs, two fullbacks and only two tight ends? And you know that Coats and Chase make the squad. It's a weakened position anyway and I don't expect signing someone that make us instantly better. Plus the offense has never really utilized the TE position.
Jake: When was the last time they carried only 2 tight ends?
Josh: Actually, they only kept two last year and in 2006.
Craig: That's actually a good though, Josh. I like that.
Jake: Interesting. Well, given how shallow it is, I guess two isn't a bad idea. They can use Andre Smith at a TE in goalline packages.
Craig: They can toss that around, if he ever gets in shape.
Chris: I was going more for fullback for Andre
Jake: No way a 350 pounder can play anywhere but on the line of scrimmage.
Craig: Again...did you see the fat guy waddle he was rocking in last week's Hard Knocks? Dude looked terrrrrible.
Josh: The thought is that you keep the running back and fullback position strong, while keeping TE status quo. The question at this point is who will be available after cut down day that the team could sign that would make the tight ends better. And does Foschi really make your squad better than, say, Dorsey and/or Pressley?
Craig: Absolutely not would be the answer to your question, Josh.
Jake: Does Pressley have the ability to learn TE?
Josh: Like a hybrid?
Jake: Yeah, like Coats. Except better.
Josh: I will make another prediction that Foschi makes the practice squad. Of the things he's shown, he's not bad. Needs some refinement; could he could be a decent third TE in this league.
Chris: I like the two tight ends and it keeps a space in off chance Utecht ever gets healthy. Which is doubtful
Josh: Utecht is out for the year. On IR.
Craig: I doubt we see him ever again.
Chris: Me too
Josh: That could depend on Coats.
Craig: I don't mind Coats, but I don't think anyone sees him as a long term answer to anything? Pressley wouldn't be a bad option as a RB/FB hybrid. How are his hands?
Josh: To be honest, I'm not sure. He didn't have a catch this preseason.
Chris: Coffman is obviously being groomed here.
Chris: Keep in mind, Kelly might be healthy next season too
Josh: I'm not sure he'll be back either. He's UFA after this year
Craig: I look for big things from Coffman, just not this year. Not early, anyway. I wouldn't mind seeing Kelly come back as a coach in some capacity.
Josh: Yea, he's a strong lockerroom presence. The team respects him alot.
Chris: If he still wants to play, I'd sign to a one-year at least
Craig: Absolutely.
Chris: Make him Chase's personal coach
Jake: Chase isn't going be anything like Kelly was though. He's not the blocking type. Although if he developed strength, that's something he could work on this year, that would be a bonus.
Josh: There's a lot of interesting thoughts here. But the question is, what do we do? Do we keep 3RB/2FB/3TE or 4 RB/1FB/3TB or 4RB/2FB/2TE? I like the latter. The 4RB/2FB/2TE.
Chris: The latter
Craig: I say 4/2/2. I think that's the best way to keep the most talent on the squad.
Jake: I'd say 4 2 2
Josh: Sweet.

Josh: So who is the second fullback? I favor Pressley. Though I believe the team will go with Vakapuna.
Craig: I really think its Pressley, which means we'll lose Fui.
Chris: If the staff says Pressley is the better blocker...
Craig: Although, check that; Mike Brown is in the equation. The coaches want Pressley, but I bet dollars to doughnuts that Mike goes with the draft pick.
Josh: I wouldn't doubt that.
Craig: So are we agreed on Vakapuna then, even reluctantly?
Chris: I want the best blocker
Josh: I'm honestly not sure.
Jake: I'd assume we keep the draft pick. Pressley to the practice squad.
Chris: Then yeah, the draft pick
Craig: If he makes it there
Josh: I think I favor Pressley, but I see the team taking Fui.
Chris: Fui is supposed to be a good pass-catcher

(Josh departs momentarily)

Craig: What are your guys' plans for the holiday weekend?
Chris: I cannot wait for tomorrow. College football overdose.
Jake: Party?
Craig: I know! I have a wedding to attend tomorrow, then I'll be at the Canfield Fair all day on Sunday. Performing in a big show Sunday night.
Chris: Yes, absolutely a party
Jake: All my friends are away.
Craig: It's all right, you'll have several college athletes to keep you company!
Chris: Beer and college football. That'll be all the friends we need.

Josh: I believe the top four wide receivers are set: Chad Ochocinco, Laveranues Coles, Chris Henry, and Andre Caldwell. I think the team keeps Jerome Simpson simply because he was the team's second round pick last year. There are four wide receivers competing for that last spot. Now, do you guys believe Simpson makes the squad? If so, then who will be the sixth? I believe Quan Cosby makes it.
Jake: I think Simpson definitely makes it. He's flashed some skills.
Craig: It's down to Purify or Cosby for me if Simpson stays; which I think he does also.
Jake: I didn't see enough of the game last night to make the call if Cosby makes it
Craig: Cosby didn't do much if anything last night, but neither did Purify; if I recall correctly, anyway. Again, I missed the first half.
Chris: Simpson stays.
Josh: What about Antonio Chatman? He could be a Marvin Lewis favorite, making the squad by default. Purify's only advantage is that he has more receptions than Cosby. Cosby has none on offense, by the way.
Jake: How could Chatman possibly make it at this point?
Craig: Man. Forgot about Chatman, completely.
Josh: I don't see it either.
Craig: I think I agree. Chatman has to be out.
Jake: I mean, I guess I see that he's Marvin’s boy, but man, please, no.
Josh: Then you have Freddie Brown.
Chris: He can't stay over Cosby or Purify? Or won't I guess
Craig: Ocho, Coles, Henry, Caldwell, Simpson, Purify for Craig. Tom Nelson makes Cosby expendable/PS candidate.
Josh: They could justify that Chatman, when healthy, is the better receiver on offense. And to be honest, I would agree. However, the durability issue makes it impossible for me to keep.
Craig: I don't see Chatman outplaying Purify at this point. Not even close. Although, when healthy, yeah. I suppose.
Chris: Ocho, Coles, Henry, Simpson, Caldwell, Chatman
Josh: Wow. We're totally split on this one. I predict Cosby, only because of his punt return potential. Chris has Chatman, Craig has Purify and Jake just hates Chatman.
Chris: I have Chatman because he's Marvin's boy and has experience with the team.
Jake: I don't like any of the options at number six.
Josh: I honestly can see that, Chris.
Craig: I'd like to see Cosby stick, I really would. Maybe they practice squad Purify again if Chatman doesn't stick.
Jake: He hasn't played or practiced. No way Chatman makes it
Chris: Yeah, that's true too. If not Chatman, Cosby. But Purify is damn physical for his size.
Jake: Cosby has some good special teams utility, but I don't think he has enough to stick. Bernard Scott looked great in that kick return.
Craig: I just hate to see them maybe lose Purify. The guy's a beast physically.
Chris: That's true. More so than Cosby
Josh: So it's between Cosby and Purify. Let's take a vote.
Chris: I'm changing my vote again
Craig: He made Roy Williams look like a fool in the Oklahoma.
Chris: Damn persuasive up in here
Josh: That was embarrassing as hell for Roy.
Craig: That said, first punt return for touchdown in, what, five years?
Josh: Who was also trying to cop out of the drills with Coles.
Jake: Purify is my vote.
Chris: I voted for Cosby for punt return. But the Scott point made perfect sense.
Craig: I'm so glad I'm not making this decision for the team! Don't forget Tom Nelson's 44-yard return last week either.
Josh: Alright, Purify?
Craig: The more they're going to want to use Scott in the offense the less they're going to use him in the return game, remember.
Josh: Good point, Craig.
Chris: I hate that concept
Josh: I think Scott would be kickoff return anyway, not punt return.
Jake: If they keep four running backs, Scott won't get much playing time. We think they keep 4 RB, so Scott can return kicks and play on some third downs.
Josh: Dorsey could too.
Craig: Ah! Okay. Ocho. Coles. Henry. Caldwell. Simpson. Cosby. That's my final answer.
Josh: But the issue is punt return; Scott hasn't returned a punt yet. Cosby, in the preseason, returned seven punts and Nelson got six.
Craig: Purify to the practice squad for the second year running.
Chris: I’m back on Cosby again
Josh: OK, time for final vote.
Chris: Cosby
Craig: Cosby
Jake: I think Cosby will make it. Sorry. I want Purify.
Josh: I can see why. You're right. He is a beast.
Craig: I'd be okay with Cosby, really. We have enough talent on offense that I think the 6th WR has to contribute in other ways anyway, so Cosby is the better call the more I think about it.
Josh: I just think that Cosby brings more immediate contributions. Purify isn't a returner and I highly doubt he gets any playing time with Chad, Coles, Henry and Caldwell in front.

Josh: In 2006 and 2008, the Bengals took nine offensive linemen. In 2007, they kept eight. We can assume they're keeping Andre Whitworth, Bobbie Williams, Kyle Cook, Nate Livings, Anthony Collins, Andre Smith, Jonathan Luigs and Scott Kooistra. So we're left with one spot left.
Jake: Jason Shirley
Josh: OK, there's two thoughts here. We could go with eight and be done.
Craig: Well, if we do keep nine including Shirley or someone else, which position is left to suffer?
Josh: The issue with a ninth is that we could be cutting into the defensive roster -- which might not be a bad idea because they seem like the stronger of the two units.
Chris: Or keep eight and keep Purify. But yeah, I see the point about not hurting the defense as bad
Josh: And I disagree with Shirley. While he's literally throwing guys when blocking, I just don't think he's ready to make the roster. He's the typical Marvin Lewis project guy. I think he's still eligible for the practice squad. I think Dennis Roland has a better shot.
Chris: "literally throwing guys when blocking" Is a hard talent to ignore, even if he is a little raw.
Craig: Shirley should be eligible for the practice squad, but I'd bet good money that we'd lose him in the process, especially with him being such a mauler at guard.
Josh: I agree, Chris. That's why I think they'll hope he clears waivers. It wasn't so long ago that Marvin Lewis said flatly on Hard Knocks that Shirley's last chance to make the squad at all was to convert to the offense. In reality, the question is do you want to keep a fourth guard, or a fourth tackle.
Craig: Fourth tackle, for my money. How are we looking at Andre Smith in this equation? Are we actually talking about a fifth tackle?
Josh: That's why I think Roland's the better choice right now. Think of it this way. If Smith doesn't return soon, and god forbid, Whitworth or Collins goes down, we're out of tackles.
Chris: I need a beer
Josh: Sure, Kooistra can play the position, but he's been working mostly guard too.
Craig: I agree with you, Josh. Roland is the smart choice here.
Josh: For now at least. If Shirley passes waivers and I believe he will, and then he's signed to the practice squad, that would be the best scenario for him.
Craig: I'm cool with that. I might be overestimating, but I do worry that he won't clear waivers.
Josh: We also have Evan Mathis and Andrew Crummey. Think those two have a shot?
Craig: I'd say Mathis more than Crummey.
Josh: Alright, full vote. Between Roland and Shirley.
Chris: Roland
Craig: 2. Reluctantly.
Jake: Humph. Roland, I guess. I'd like Shirley.
Josh: I think we all would, to be honest.
Chris: Yep. Tackle will win out, however
Josh: Alright. The offense is set. SWEET!

Craig: Sidebar: Any kind of wishing we could keep Swank?
Josh: He proved that franchising Graham was kind of redonkulous. I love that word.
Jake: Swank hasn't been that impressive. But he made what Josh said true
Craig: Makes me think of Koothrapali in Big Bang Theory.

Josh: Now, historically, the Bengals have taken eight defensive linemen. Mostly it's four defensive ends and four defensive tackles. Here's what I think are locks; Antwan Odom, Robert Geathers, Michael Johnson, Pat Sims, Tank Johnson and Domata Peko. That leaves two guys.
Craig: Rucker should be in the equation probably.
Josh: Well, you got Fanene and Rucker at defensive end. Harrington too.
Craig: Right, Fanene and Harrington the tight end.
Josh: Then you have Clinton McDonald, Langston Moore and Vernell Jenkins at DT.
Chris: I'm voting Jenkins. And you all already know that
Josh: A little UK love?
Jake: Moore's gotta make it.
Craig: Moore is a good pick too.
Chris: Absolutely
Craig: So we really need one end and one tackle. Rucker and Moore?
Josh: I think Moore is the more likely pick. Does that leave McDonald on the practice squad? As for Rucker, I think Fanene beats him out. And the only reason I say that is Rucker's durability. He has none.
Chris: True
Craig: Yeah, you're right. For some reason I always forget about Fanene.
Jake: Might be hard to deny Rucker a spot though, he has quite a bit of talent and has played well.
Craig: He's one of those guys that's just solid and makes plays.
Josh: In three seasons, Rucker has only played 16 games.
Chris: Sterling
Craig: Ouch.
Josh: I like Rucker too. I mean, the dude will catch on with easily another team.
Chris: And be healthy
Craig: And be a perennial All-Pro and eventual HoF inductee.
Chris: You got it
Josh: Cincinnati karma.
Jake: Fanene has been pretty solid though when he gets playing time.
Craig: I like Fanene for his DE/DT versatility. Similar to Bryan Robinson in that regard.
Josh: Fanene has only missed two games in the past two seasons, though he hasn't been flashy. I like his versatility too.
Craig: I think this team is at the point where they need to (at least on the defensive side of the ball) put guys in place who make plays, not guys who might make plays. This defensive unit is CLOSE.
So for his solid play and durability/versatility, my vote goes to Fanene I think.
Josh: I agree. And if Rucker stays healthy, he fits that bill. But you have to depend on the guy too.
Craig: Right. That was my primary point.
Josh: On the other hand, Harrington has two sacks this preseason.
Craig: Yeah. Crap.
Chris: That's big
Josh: Decisions, decisions, decisions.
Craig: What string was he playing against?
Josh: Not much against the first team. Not really sure if he had many first half snaps.
Craig: So that's in the equation too, kind of, sorta.
Josh: Agreed. So the question between Rucker and Fanene is health. Harrington, if he passes waivers, can be ~~the team's starting tight end and~~ join the practice squad.
Craig: So Rucker=out. Another third round pick down the tubes (3rd?). Guys? Fanene or Harrington? All considered I think it has to be Fanene.
Josh : I'm picking Fanene, only because of the question about Rucker's health.
Chris: Didn't we establish Mike Brown likes draft picks?
Craig: lol @ the TE comment. That'll never get old.
Josh: I've cried every night in my sleep after that.
Craig: So we agree that WE want Fanene. Thoughts on what will actually happen?
Josh: I actually think it'll be Fanene. He's on his second contract right now anyway. So you know the team likes him, and Jake is right, Fanene is solid.
Craig: I'm good with that, Josh.
Jake: I think Fanene will stick.
Josh : So we went with Langston Moore and Jonathan Fanene.

Josh: In respect to linebackers, the Bengals took eight in 2006, seven in 2007, and six in 2008. The locks, I think, are Keith Rivers, Dhani Jones, Rey Maualuga, Rashad Jeanty and Brandon Johnson.
Craig: Yep.
Josh: I really liked Hodge during preseason and he's a special teams contributor. I think he backs up Dhani.
Jake: Hodge absolutely sticks. Simmons will be sure of it.
Craig: Right.
Chris: That's six.
Craig: So. Maxwell? In or out?
Jake: I dunno about Maxwell.
Josh: I think Blackstock makes it, if for any reason, he can play defensive end also.
Craig: I was going to say I think Blackstock sticks. His career-ending hit on Utecht has to count for something other than wasting another of my Bengals jerseys.
Josh: Then you have Dan Stuka.
Chris: I vote for him on name alone. That's just a badass name
Craig: We need to bring back Bjork.
Jake: Reminds me too much of Ditka
Josh: There's another issue we need to consider. Do we just keep six backers and 10 in the secondary? Or seven backers and 9 in the secondary.
Craig: Got to be 7 and 9, I think.
Chris: "What's your name, punk?" "Dan STUKA." "Oh, damn. Don't mess w/that guy." "Damn right.
Chris: I'm sorry
Josh: It's a sweet football name. Then the seventh linebacker has to be Blackstock.
Craig: Absolutely. Blackstock at #7 backer.
Chris: Yes, Blackstock
Josh: Alright, we'll go with Blackstock.

Craig: So we're on to the secondary then?
Josh : Now this will be the toughest one of the night -- and the last.
Craig: Josh, locks?
Chris: (whispers) Dan Stuka will be watching us. Remember that.
Josh: I got Johnathan Joseph, Leon Hall, Chris Crocker, Chinedum Ndukwe and Roy Williams. Now, I think Tom Nelson is a close lock -- like most everyone else, I loved his play.
Craig: Hall, Joseph, Jones, Crocker, Ndukwe, Williams, Nelson would be my locks. Personally.
Josh: I agree, so Nelson makes the team?
Chris: Who's that kid that made that huge sack against the Pats?
Craig: I don't see how he can't make the team. The guy's a beast.
Josh: Chris likes Nelson too.
Chris: Yeah, him
Craig: Nelson brings versatility as I think he could be a nickel corner also.
Chris: He's certainly got the speed for nickel
Josh: I question David Jones. Is the talent in the secondary deep enough? Is Jones worth keeping, though he didn't make any preseason games?
Craig: It depends on how confident they are with either trying Nelson there or Geoff Pope.
Josh: No thanks on Pope.
Craig: Just sayin'.
Josh: Kyries Hebert is another I like that doesn't much notice, because his strength is his special teams play.
Craig: I'm glad Fletcher is already gone so we don't have to factor him in.
Josh: No doubt
Craig: Yeah, Hebert's got to stay. Led in teams tackles last year, didn't he?
Josh: Yea. We're up to seven. What about Morgan Trent? We need to start looking at cornerbacks. We've listed five safeties already.
Craig: Okay. I think Trent sticks.
Josh: Trent makes the team. You agree?
Chris: Absolutely. Haven't seen much, but what I've read.
Josh : He hasn't been bad.
Craig: So one more. Lynch? That's another safety so maybe Lynch goes.
Josh: I don't know. This is where I think David Jones squeezes in.
Craig: Yeah, more than likely.
Josh: You could also go Pope or Rico Murray.
Craig: Jones improved over last season. No. Jones is better than either of them. Practice squad Pope again, he may be ready next year.
Josh: Jones was placed on the depth chart as the third CB at the start of training camp. Do we reluctantly agree with Jones, or do you guys think we should go with six safeties and keep Lynch?
Craig: That probably depends on Nelson's cover skills.
Chris: Three cornerbacks?
Craig: I wouldn't mind keeping Lynch around, but we definitely need another corner.
Josh: What about Marvin White. We're completely excluding him.
Craig: I'm getting a headache.
Josh: We could swap out Hebert for White.
Craig: Crap, I didn't even realize that White wasn't on our list. I think that says enough about him, though. I think White goes.
Josh: Axe White?
Craig: How do you keep him over your number one special teams guy?
Josh: I'm just not sure where he'd fit in. It would be a numbers game. On the other hand, would the Bengals elect to keep White over Nelson?
Craig: A couple of years ago our special teams squad was decimated and it took over a year to shore it back up. I don't want to see that happen again.
Chris: Better not
Craig: White/Nelson. That's actually probably the best battle happening right now on defense.
Josh: Or, we could dump a running back for another guy in the secondary.
Craig: Dump Dorsey if we want to go that route.
Josh: Dump the oft-injured Dorsey for White. Now we're getting interesting.
Craig: For me? No question. None at all.
Chris: See ya
Craig: What will Mike Brown do, though?
Josh: Exactly.
Chris: Suck. That's what he'll do
Josh: I can see that.
Craig: Son of a gun. I'm stressing about this like we have any say in the matter right now, rubbing my temples and such.
Josh: LOL. We're on the last roster spot. Here's something else to consider. Dating back to 2006, the Bengals have always taken ten or more defensive backs.
Chris: STUKA. Sorry
Craig: So we're short unless we knock off Dorsey, which throws us back into the Dorsey/Leonard discussion. I really wish he hadn't have blocked/returned that punt.
Josh: In regards to Dorsey, I'm not sure if we should use a spot on him for blocking a punt. While it's nice, it's never a certainty. And with Dorsey's skillset, we have Scott.
Craig: I know that. You know that. Bratkowski talked on this week's Hard Knocks about him blocking the field goal two years ago.
Josh: Yea, it just goes to show how fickle the coaches are on the competition.
Craig: Right. I mean, I like a punt block and touchdown as much as the next guy, but...
Josh: On another note, think about it this time last year. You know who we were discussing? Perry, Watson, Dorsey. So you're starting to favor cutting Dorsey for a 10th defensive back?
Craig: Wow. What a difference a year makes. Yes. Yes, I am. Dorsey goes, White stays for me.
Chris: I don't see them dumping a four-year player for a 10th defensive back. Just sayin'
Josh: I think it's a valid point. Do you get rid of Dorsey, who played redonkulous this preseason, for sheer numbers in the secondary? Instead of White, we could keep Lynch. Or we could keep Pope However, here's another point. How much playing time do we really expect Dorsey to get with Cedric, Scott and Leonard in front of him.
Chris: What if Cedric goes back to sucking?
Craig: Dorsey is just going to get hurt. Again.
Chris: Maybe more than it would first seem.
Craig: Chris, that's when Scott takes over.
Chris: Every down?
Craig: Leonard will share. I'm not worried about Cedric, though.
Chris: I am.
Josh: Honestly, if Benson goes down, then I think Leonard becomes the feature back and then Dorsey would be the team's third-down back. And if Benson sucks, then Palmer throws for 5,000 yards and 50 touchdowns. No problem.
Chris: Over Scott? Leonard.
Josh: I think Leonard has the build and style to be a feature back. Scott needs to be that change of pace guy. I would be surprised if he ever gets 15 carries this year.
Craig: LT, Josh?
Josh: You're comparing Scott to LT?
Craig: No. Just sayin'.
Chris: He's got mad skill
Josh: Hey, who knows what happens. I just don't think takes over a feature back role this year.
Craig: Okay. Does DeDe stay or go?
Chris: Stay.

Josh: Here's where we are. We have 52 players set now. We have only 9 defensive backs. The Bengals have historically taken 10 or more. We're thinking of freeing up a spot to give us a 10th, and we instinctively went right to DeDe.
Jake: I have company.
Craig: Nice.
Chris: Pics?
Josh: iPhone?

Josh: We're so close! One more... we... can... do... it... We just need to make a decision. Do we take someone out in favor of a 10th defensive back?
Craig: Okay. DeDe is long past practice squad-eligible, right? Not that it would matter, someone would snatch him up like the Colts did anyway.
Josh: You guys know that the Bengals coaches are right now talking about this.
Chris: I'm keeping Dorsey.

Bengals will need to release five players by September 1

Kirkendall — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 17:22:36 -0000

By September 1 (this Tuesday), all teams are mandated to lower their roster to 75 players. That number is dramatically reduced to 53 on September 5 (next Saturday), which is the league-wide cutdown day. With 80 players currently on roster, the Bengals will be forced to cut five by this Tuesday. While I won't name players, I believe they'll address three positions at least. And if Andre Smith decides to join us before Tuesday, the team will need to cut six.

Wide Receiver. With ten wide receivers, the Bengals are not likely to carry all of them into the final preseason game. Chad Ochocinco, Laveranues Coles, Chris Henry and Andre Caldwell are locks. Jerome Simpson is likely making the squad and the Bengals will only take six receivers into the regular season. That leaves Quan Cosby, Freddie Brown, Maurice Purify, Greg Orton and Antonio Chatman. Purify and Cosby, I believe, make it to final cutdown day -- especially Cosby who has enough skills on punt return to keep him in the discussion. Freddie Brown and Greg Orton I'm not sure about and Antonio Chatman could be an example of either. Do they want to wait until the last possible second to cut him, or do they figure Chatman is unlikely to make the team anyway based on serious durability issues and make the move now?

Tight Ends. Even if Ben Utecht misses the rest of the season after suffering a nasty concussion early during Training Camp, the Bengals have six Tight Ends on the roster. You figure Chase Coffman and Daniel Coats are locks. Utecht would be the team's third, and likely final, Tight End. This leaves J.P. Foschi, Darius Hill, Matt Sherry and Kolo Kapanui. Between the four, Foschi is the only player to catch a pass -- a 20-yard reception against the Rams. Since signing with the team, Sherry has dealt with constant injuries.

Fullbacks. While it is possible the Bengals take two Tight Ends into the regular season, they're likely only taking one. Furthermore, Jeremi Johnson is making improvements that could see him solidify his spot at the team's starting fullback. However, based on the level of competition, I'm not sure the Bengals make any roster moves by Tuesday. Based on the theory that Johnson resumes his role as starting fullback, the Bengals will want to see which of the two remaining fullbacks they can place on the practice squad, if they decide on taking one into the regular season.

How does the positions breakdown right now?

QB	3	DE	8
RB	5	DT	6
FB	3	LB	9
TE	7	CB	7
WR	10	S	7
C	2
G	5	Special	4
T	4

Total	39	Total	41

Bengals Waive College Free Agent Rookies HB Marlon Lucky, WR David Richmond

jsl413 — Sat, 22 Aug 2009 21:51:26 -0000

Joe Reedy reported today that the Bengals waived college free agent signings Marlon Lucky, a former Cornhusker tailback, and San Jose State wide receiver David Richmond. Neither of these guys were particularly likely to make the team, as the Bengals are fairly stocked at both wide receiver and running back. Lucky had two carries for 15 yards on Thursday night in New England, and Richmond did not manage to get any playing time in the preseason. That tells us that these guys were simply long shots to make the roster.

There are now 77 guys on the roster, which the Bengals have to trim down to 75 by September 1. I'd expect the next two cuts to be on the defensive side of the ball, where the Bengals are carrying 7 safeties and cornerbacks, 9 linebackers, and 6 defensive ends.

The Bengals are still carrying 5 running backs. Cedrick Benson and Brian Leonard are essentially locks to make the team. I'd venture to guess that Bernard Scott is probably going to make it as well, but for the sake of discussion, the three guys on the bubble are Scott, DeDe Dorsey, and James Johnson. Of those three, Scott has by far the most upside, and is the most likely to stick around. Here's a look at their numbers through the preseason so far.

Player	ATT	YDS	YDS/ATT	TD
DeDe Dorsey	7	65	9.3	0
James Johnson	4	22	5.5	0
Bernard Scott	11	36	3.3	0

Scott has clearly gotten the most extended look of these three guys, splitting carries with Brian Leonard (who has 13) with the second team. I think the "ATT" number is indicative of who the coaches plan on keeping around. Dorsey's big yardage total and average is due, of course, to that big 45 yard run against the Patriots on Thursday.

As for the WR position, I think the top five guys are pretty obvious at this point. Guys battling for a roster spot will be Freddie Brown, Greg Orton, Maurice Purify, and Quan Cosby. Cosby has gotten an extended look at Punt Returner this summer with Antoine Chatman sidelined with his latest, newest, and most improved injury.

Cosby is currently listed as second on the depth chart behind Chatman. He has not been particularly impressive, but we haven't seen many punt returns. I think that is a big value booster for Cosby, though. To date, he's returned 3 punts for 12 yards. No one else has returned a punt for the Bengals. Cosby has been the best kickoff return man in a small sample size, buoyed by a 34 yard return. Andre Caldwell will likely be the kickoff guy this year.

As for Brown, Orton, and Purify, only Purify has any catches so far this preseason, hauling in two passes for 19 yards. I see all of these guys as long shots to make the roster unless they show that they can really contribute on kick or punt coverage. We might see some of these names on the practice squad.

Depth of the 2009 Cincinnati Bengals Part 1: Offense

jsl413 — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 23:36:51 -0000

More photos » by Charles Krupa - AP

These guys are backups. One of them is really good, the other is not Carson Palmer. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)

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Last night, we learned that the Bengals have excellent depth at the placekicking position in the form of Chad (Ochocinco) Johnson. Reviews from the media and around the league (except Skip Bayless) seem to approve of Johnson's kick. Jets Kicker Jay Feely gave Chad a 80/85 grade for his extra point from a technical point of view, saying "the only thing form wrong that he did technically is that he followed through too much, and his hips opened up... but, I mean, he got good elevation... and I was just as impressed with his kickoff! I think Skip as mad though because I think he kicked better than Skip could kick."

Feely also gave him an 85/85 for his kickoff. It's safe to say Feely is an Ochocinco fan. Speaking of Chad, Mark Schlereth just mentioned on SportsCenter's Fantasy Draft special that he thinks we'll see our star #1 WR recover to his previous form.

Moving on to the meat of this post, I contend that the Bengals are deeper across the board this year than we've seen in quite some time. Let's go position by position down the depth chart to determine how resilient our team will be as we sfight through inevitable NFL injuries this year.

Quarterback: Carson Palmer is obviously the key to making the Bengals go this year. Without Palmer, Cincinnati will not win that many games. But this year, I'm more comfortable with J.T. O'Sullivan than I was with he who must not be named from Harvard last year. So far this preseason, he's shown the ability to complete passes for more than 3 yards, as evidenced by beautiful throws last night to Chris Henry and Jerome Simpson (there was no pass interference) down the field. If Carson goes down, God forbid, we might not lose as much as we did last year.

Running Back: Running back this year is the first interesting position I'll touch on. Cedrick Benson comes into this season as the undisputed starter. But I don't think he'll get feature back carries, especially if he continues to rely on quickness and agility rather than downhill power running for which he is reputed. Given this trend, which was especially apparent last night, I think Brian Leonard is a definitive lock (he was anyway) to make the team and may steal some goal line carries.

Bengals.com lists DeDe Dorsey at #3, and he is no longer eligible for the practice squad. Dorsey is an injury liability, but has shown explosiveness nearly every time he's taken the field in orange and black.

That leaves Bernard Scott, James Johnson, and Marlon Lucky as the odd men out. Lucky is the first cut here, as far as I can tell. He's gotten only 2 touches this preseason, and must not be ready to go if he's getting that little playing time. In extremely limited time, James Johnson has looked decent, but I doubt he makes the team either.

If the Bengals carry 4 tailbacks, I'd assume they keep Scott since they burned a pick on him and his ceiling is so high. The biggest problem I've noticed with him is slow recognition and decision making this preseason. Last night, he missed a couple of holes as he stood around behind the line of scrimmage while he tried to figure out which way to go. When he does hit the hole though, Scott is quick and elusive, and is a big home run threat.

Really, though, no matter which backs the Bengals keep, this will be a deep position in 2009. There is talent all the way down the line. Of course, tailback success is largely dependant on the men pushing each other around in the trenches.

Fullback: On Hard Knocks, we saw running backs coach Jim Anderson reveal that, essentially, our fullback competition is tight this year. The Bengals.com depth chart lists Jeremy Johnson first, Fui Vakapuna second, and Chris Pressley third.

I have to imagine that Johnson makes the team if he continues to keep his work ethic up. He helped Rudi Johnson to a franchise record setting seasons in 2004 and 2005 and is a veteran of the system. But, the coaches have been really high on Vakapuna and Pressley.

I wouldn't be surprised if two of these guys make the team and the other is put on the practice squad. I'd almost expect the Bengals to try to maintain some sort of control over these guys this year as an insurance policy.

Tackle: The Bengals have at least insurance-level depth at both tackle positions this year, assuming Andre Smith at some point signs a contract. Dennis Roland has played well this preseason, indicating that he will be serviceable in an emergency substitution.

The front-runners, though, have looked pretty damn good for the most part. Andrew Whitworth and Anthony Collins have emerged as above-average offensive tackles. I doubt that either of them are Pro Bowl talents, however.

Andre Smith, if he signs, will get playing time this year. His talent indicates that he'll be a mainstay at tackle for years to come, but he is a rookie this year and I believe he would be only a marginal improvement over Collins, who has been present for camp. Regardless, we've got 3 starting quality tackles on this team right now as far as I am concerned.

Guard: The shallowest position on the offense, Bobbie Williams will have to stay healthy this year or the guards may be a sorry bunch. Nate Livings has played, for the most part, well so far in the preseason. But he will have his hands full with the Casey Hamptons of the AFCN. Scott Kooistra is not the worst back up the team could have, but there's a reason the now 7-year veteran is riding pine and Nate Livings, who was impressive at the end of last season let's not forget, is starting. The starters really need to stay healthy here.

Center: Bengals fans know the importance of quality center play in unifying and leading an offensive line. This year, the unit is slightly more veteran, despite some guys getting their first pro starts, these are men that have been in the league. The unit should benefit from the emergence of Kyle Cook, who looked great against the quality NT Vince Wilfork last night, winning the initial "push" battle about 3/4 of the time in the early going yesterday. The O-Line wasn't great at picking up blitzes consistently, but I expect that is something that will improve when Carson returns to the lineup.

The great thing this year is that we have a legitimate backup in center-of-the-future Jonathan Luigs. Luigs' college record at the center position is excellent. If Cook goes down, there just isn't a huge fall-off when we get to Luigs, whose skill set projects him to be a consistent but not quite dominant offensive centerpiece.

Wide Receiver: The deepest position on the offense is unquestionable the wide receiving corps this year. Antonio Chatman is currently listed as the 6th WR on the depth chart, and for a guy that was the #3 last year to be not making the team, that tells you something about the men that have stepped up and look great so far in preseason play.

Chad Johnson has, so far, looked like the Pro Bowl receiver we've been used to the past almost-decade. Chris Henry looks like he has accepted that wide receivers have to fight for some catches, and has looked good over the middle and over the top, too. You know what you get with Laveranues Coles, a solid guy who might get hurt but will be willing to go over the middle.

Young guys Andre Caldwell and Jerome Simpson are pretty good friends, and continue to develop in the wings. Chad won't last forever, and Coles is on the downside of his career at this point. Behind these "big 5", which I'd contend are one of the best 5-WR units in the league, Freddie Brown, Maurice Purify, and Quan Crosby should battle for a roster spot. Very deep position this year.

Tight End: This position looked a lot better when Reggie Kelly was healthy. But even without him, I think we're OK at TE. Ben Utecht and Chase Coffman both offer superb receiving potential for Carson Palmer this year, which we haven't had since he was drafted. Hopefully Daniel Coats steps into Kelly's shoes and has a good showing as the primary blocking Tight End this year.

What are your thoughts on the backups this year? Is there anyone I'm forgetting that has been impressive in the preseason?

Fantasy Football Update; Antonio Chatman hurt, has his Bengals career ended?

Kirkendall — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 03:23:02 -0000

More photos » by Al Behrman - AP

4 months ago: Cincinnati Bengals rookie defensive tackle Clinton McDonald waits for the snap during practice at their NFL football training camp, Saturday, Aug. 1, 2009, in Georgetown, Ky. (AP Photo/Al Behrman)

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First things first; updates and reminders you should know. The premiere of Hard Knocks debuts Wednesday night at 10 PM on HBO. Excited? Nervous? Anxious? I'm really looking forward to behind-the-scene material, like meetings. The Bengals head to New Orleans to play the Saints on Friday. Bob Bratkowski said that Carson Palmer will play the first series, and maybe the second depending on the length of the first. Bratkowski also wants to "intersperse" backups with the starters to see "quality competition." We'll be here at CJ, blogging the game in an open thread (you expected anything else on a Friday night? Don't worry, I'm already sleeping on the couch).

Fantasy Football Leagues. I've decided to hold the Fantasy Football drafts for both leagues AFTER the preseason, during the week leading up to the regular season. I'm doing this for one simple reason. Injuries. I don't want anyone drafting impact players that go on the Injured Reserve at any point during the regular season. That always screws someone -- and that someone tends to just say "to hell with it." And if you assumed that someone is me, you'd be correct. Also, since there's 24 teams in each league, plus 15 NFL players for each team, there will be 360 players drafted. Jesus. What do you guys think of 30 seconds per pick?

We have two full leagues right now. Cincy Jungle Varsity (I'm trying to change its name from 2009) and Cincy Jungle Stragglers. As it happens, both leagues filled up quickly leaving out others who regularly work at internet oppressive companies. So here's the deal. I'll create a third league IF there's enough interest. So email me. Tell me you want to play. If I get enough emails, I'll make an announcement (and warn you prior to the announcement). To accommodate people that work at internet oppressive companies, the announcement for signups will be made at night -- roughly 10 PM. Once I get the feeling that at least 24 people will sign up, then we'll create a third league and call it Cincy Jungle Nightmen (if that's not a totally cool fantasy football league name, then give us suggestions). Nightwatchers? Anyway.

Now, onto some observations.

With Chatman's injury, will Purify rise to the chance?

+ When I watched Antonio Chatman limp back to the huddle after being tackled during last Friday's intrasquad scrimmage, I thought to myself, "surprise, surprise, surprise." Chatman suffered a groin injury during the 2006 preseason, sat the first three games, played the following three games and reaggravated the groin in the sixth game. He was placed on IR. Chatman has missed 22 games in his three-year career with the Bengals, most due to injury.

His limping on Friday was the result of a sprained ankle, writes Bengals.com. "Chatman looks to have a severe enough sprain that he could be out three weeks."

What does that mean in the grande scheme of things? After the top-four receivers (dubbed "C to the fourth" -- Chad, Coles, Caldwell, Chris), Jerome Simpson and Chatman round out the top six; a standard number of receivers most teams take when setting their regular season roster. If Chatman is released, then you have to figure either Freddie Brown or Maurice Purify gets the nod. Brown is a practice squad candidate and Bob Bratkowski said that Purify "is making a run" after a solid Training Camp to this point.

Either way, I believe the question should be asked. With Chatman's propensity of being injured, along with a 21-catch season (194 yards receiving) being his career year with the Bengals (he had a 49-catch season in 2005 with the Packers), do you believe that Chatman makes the team? Chatman is 30 years old, often injured; you have to believe that any one of the younger players fighting for a roster spot could mirror the results.

+ A reader at Who Dey Revolution had a nice statistical breakdown of the team's wins during Mike Browns tenure as owner and president. It's broken down by wins in the first half of the season, the second half, and the opposing team's record at the end of the season. Of the team's last 11 wins, one has come against a playoff team -- the Titans in 2007. Growing up with baseball as my primary love before discovering football, I've always had this terrible addiction to stats. However stats in football is often the most misleading category when it comes to analysis.

Naturally, I want more. What's the Bengals winning percentage against playoff teams? What's the winning percentage against teams that they should beat (aka teams with a similar winning percentage when they meet; not at the end of the season)? For instance, the New York Jets and Cincinnati Bengals were an identical 1-5 when they meet in 2007. The Bengals won 38-31. The Cincinnati Bengals were 4-8 when they hosted the 3-9 St. Louis Rams. The Bengals won 19-10. It doesn't predict or prove much, other than how you do against playoff teams and how well you do against teams that you're supposed to beat.

+ Hobson thinks that Jason Shirley's move to guard is basically a last ditch effort to keep the former defensive tackle on the team, saying the Bengals have "too many young defensive tackles they think can play", concluding that "Shirley doesn't seem to have moved past the project stage."

Can you say, bubble?

Charting Contracts for the Bengals 2009 Rookie Class

Kirkendall — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 21:00:18 -0000

As we wrote in a preview post, the Bengals tend to sign a majority of their picks in the week leading up to training camp. However, sometimes they do things differently. Like signing four of their 11 draft picks in June. The following is a chart that we'll (hopefully) update when the team signs their rookies.

Pick	Round	Rookie	Position	Years	Base	Signing	Total
1	1	Andre Smith	OT
2	2	Rey Maualuga	LB	Four		$2.84 M	$4.66 M
3	3	Michael Johnson	DE	Four	$1.75 M	$863,020	$2.613 M*
4	3	Chase Coffman	TE	Four	$1.75 M	$622,000	$2.372 M
5	4	Jonathan Luigs	C	Four	$1.75 M	$509,000	$2.259 M
6	5	Kevin Huber	P	Four	$1.75 M	$195,000	$.1.945 M
7	6	Morgan Trent	DB	Four	$1.75 M	$112,000	$1.862 M
8	6	Bernard Scott	RB	Four	$1.75 M	$77,500	$1.828 M
9	7	Fui Vakapuna	FB	Four	$1.75 M	$61,000	$1.811 M
10	7	Clinton McDonald	DT	Four	$1.75 M	$39,000	$1.789 M
11	7	Freddie Brown	WR	Four	$1.75 M	$37,588	$1.787 M

Dates of Signings:

June 16: Morgan Trent
June 18: Freddie Brown
June 20: Bernard Scott
June 22: Clinton McDonald
July 7: Fui Vakapuna
July 16: Kevin Huber
July 20: Jonathan Luigs
July 27: Chase Coffman
July 28: Rey Maualuga
July 28: Michael Johnson

* Deal is includes a fourth-year escalator clause that, if triggered, could reach a maximum value of $3.47 million.

Bengals sign seventh-round draft pick, Defensive Tackle Clinton McDonald; four down, seven to go

Kirkendall — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 01:03:39 -0000

When the Bengals signed Tank Johnson, it meant the end for John Thornton's career in Cincinnati. It also meant that Orien Harris went to fourth or fifth on the team's defensive tackle depth chart -- depending of course how you view Jason Shirley. Oh, the Bengals weren't done. With their tenth pick on Sunday, the middle of three seventh round draft picks, the Cincinnati Bengals drafted Memphis defensive tackle Clinton McDonald. Since the Bengals had a core of defensive tackles in Tank Johnson, Domata Peko, Pat Sims and Shirley, the likelihood of keeping Harris over any of those guys was incredibly small. The option, release Harris.

Or trade him for a running back in Brian Leonard, who was selected second in the 2007 NFL Draft. Shocking. The fact that the Bengals were able to trade for someone that we're likely to use in 2009 for a guy that they were all but sure to release, is, well, you have to admit, it's kind of impressive.

Then on Monday, the Bengals reportedly signed McDonald, giving the Bengals their fourth draft picks signed. Seven to go. When terms are released and known, we'll pass that to you.

Bengals sign CB Morgan Trent - Four Years, $1.85 million and $112,000 signing bonus. Bengals sign WR Freddie Brown - Four Years, $1.189 million and (approx.) $37,500 signing bonus. Bengals sign RB Bernard Scott.

Bengals sign sixth-round draft pick Bernard Scott to four-year deal

Kirkendall — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 01:00:26 -0000

On Saturday afternoon, the Bengals signed running back Bernard Scott, the second sixth-round draft pick by the Bengals in the 2009 NFL Draft (ak513 referenced it earlier in the FanPosts). Terms haven't been disclosed. The deal is for four years, writes Joe Reedy, at league minimum. On Thursday, Reedy clarified league minimum by saying:

Since I will be using with the middle- and late-round guys a lot, signed for four-years at the NFL minimum, what does that mean?

The player’s base salary will be $310,000 this year, $395,000 next year, $480,000 in 2011 and $565,000 in 2012 for $1.75 million over the four years. The difference in the contract is with the signing bonus. The lower the pick, the less the signing bonus.

However, Trent and Brown signed significantly different deals, with $661,000 separating the two, which could mean additional bonuses that aren't transcribed. Either way, three draft picks signed, eight to go.

Bernard Scott writes on his website:

Just finished signing my NFL contract with the Bengals. It's a great feeling. I wasn't worried about it but it's cool to have it done and focus on nothing but football. This is a good franchise and I think we will surprise some people out there.

Bengals sign CB Morgan Trent - Four Years, $1.85 million and $112,000 signing bonus. Bengals sign WR Freddie Brown - Four Years, $1.189 million and (approx.) $37,500 signing bonus.

Report: Bengals agree to terms with seventh-round pick Freddie Brown

Kirkendall — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 15:50:32 -0000

On Tuesday, the Bengals signed their first of 11 2009 NFL draft picks in cornerback Morgan Trent. Trent is regarded as, at best, the fourth cornerback on roster for the time being. He'll likely compete against David Jones for the third spot and playing time at nickel.

Trent isn't the only Bengals rookie signed to a contract. Adam Caplan of Scout NFL Network, via Scout.com, writes that "according to a league source, it's a four-year deal worth $1.189 million which includes a signing bonus of a little more than $37,500." Brown is likely competing as a return specialist on kickoff and punts. Otherwise, we just don't see him making the team as a wide receiver strictly playing on offense.

Update: Bengals.com confirms.

Also Thursday the agent for seventh-round draft pick, wide receiver Freddie Brown said Brown and the Bengals have agreed on a four-year deal that includes a signing bonus of $37,600.