Cincinnati Bengals Rumors: Finding Cedric Benson's Replacement Top Priority in 2012 NFL Draft or Free Agency

Monday, January 23, 2012

Bengals.com

By Kris Knox
Featured NFL Writer

The Cincinnati Bengals surprised everyone in 2011 by posting a 9-7 record and making it into the playoffs.

However, that run came to a screeching halt in the post season when Cincy was manhandled by the Houston Texans, 31-10, in the wildcard round.

Fortunately, the Bengals have a solid core of talented, young players and should find themselves back in the playoffs sooner than later. With several key pieces in place—like quarterback Andy Dalton and Pro Bowl wideout A.J. Green—a rebuild will not be necessary for 2012, but a retooling of the roster could go a long way toward helping Cincinnati's post-season chances.

During the offseason, Cincinnati will look to upgrade several positions, including cornerback, safety and wide receiver, but the Bengals' biggest move will likely come at the running back position.

Starting running back Cedric Benson will be a free agent and does not appear to be in Cincinnati's future plans. Benson had an opportunity to sign a long term deal prior to the start of the season, but more legal troubles put his football future in jeopardy and the Bengals chose to sign him to a single-year deal instead.

Benson had a productive season in 2011, rushing for 1067 yards and six touchdowns, but he was often absent on third downs and in passing situations. With Benson's history of off-field issues and inability to thrive as an every down back, Cincinnati will probably look for a more versatile back to fit Jay Gruden's offense.

Cincinnati's best course of action would be to draft Benson's replacement in April. Unless the Bengals wish to trade up, Alabama's Trent Richardson is out of the question (most mocks have him as a Top 10 pick), but backs like Miami's Lamar Miller, Virginia Tech's Davis Wilson and Oregon's LaMichael James should be available later in the first and into the second round.

Cincinnati will have two picks in the first round (No. 17 and No. 21) and early mock drafts already have them selecting Miller with one of them.

Of course, Benson will not be the only running back hitting the open market in March. Cincinnati could look at its options there as well. Matt Forte, Michael Bush and Marshawn Lynch top the free agent class, though all three are likely to resign with their respective teams. If one slips through, however, Cincinnati would be smart to at least make and offer.

The Bengals could also look at Cleveland's Peyton Hillis, Washington's Tim Hightower, Dallas' Tashard Choice and Kansas City's Jackie Battle to carry the ball next season.

Whichever route the Bengals decide to take, Benson is probably gone and finding his replacement should be priority number one this offseason.


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