NFL Preview: Cincinnati Bengals

Cincinnati Bengals 

Key Additions:
WR A.J. Green (draft)
QB Andy Dalton (draft) 
TE Bo Scaife (FA) 
LB Manny Lawson (FA)
G Max Jean-Gillis (FA)
LB Thomas Howard (FA)
CB Nate Clements (FA)
S Taylor Mays (trade)


Key Departures:
DE Antwan Odom
QB Carson Palmer
CB Jonathan Joseph 
WR Terrell Owens


Report: 
A Sports Illustrated title summed it up the best by asking the question, "Are the Bungles back?" It isn't more imminent then with the offense. Rookie QB Andy Dalton will be forced into the starting line-up right away. In his preseason games he hasn't shown any ability to make plays with his arm. At running back Cedric Benson was re-signed to provide stability. Receiver may be an iffy position for Cincinnati. First round pick A.J. Green and Jerome Simpson are the starters and are very unproven with an already unproven quarterback. TE Jermaine Gresham had a successful rookie season, and looks to improve. Offensive line is good for a team that may be so bad. The only unproven piece is T Andre Smith. 


The Bengals defense may not be any better. The defensive line fails to apply pressure on the quarterback. Second year player Carlos Dunlap was the bright spot last season recording 9.5 sacks. Cincinnati will be relying on pick-ups Manny Lawson and Thomas Howard to be a force at linebacker. Lawson and Howard had disappointing seasons last year. They will join Rey Maualuga who had a good rookie year. Secondary is another issue. CB Jonathan Joseph left for Houston and broke up a great cornerback duo with Leon Hall. Hall will now try to merge with newly acquired Nate Clements. At safety Reggie Nelson and Chris Crocker have been disappointments over the last couple of seasons.  


K Mike Nugent is an average kicker and P Kevin Huber is a below average kicker. Cincinnati's returners Quan Cosby and Bernard Scott are average returners. 


Review:

This is a team in turmoil. QB Carson Palmer knows as he is refusing the play. They have inexperienced quarterbacks and receivers. Positions that are experienced lack good talent. This team does not have a chance for the playoffs this season and many ahead. A 0-16 season is a real possibility.  


Division Finish: TBA