Bengals coverage and the NFL http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Bengals are having issues with a receiver... maybe you have heard about it... In round two they got a small school guy Jerome Simpson. A lot of big name receivers are sitting and waiting and lesser known guys are going higher than expected. Simpson is a good looking receiver but not a quick fix. Then again most times rookie receivers don't make a major impact so maybe that doesn't matter as much as you'd think http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Bengals may have missed on Harvey, but they moved quickly to take USC LB Keith Rivers who follows in a great line of Trojan linebackers... that takes a target from the Patriots who are up next and likely will go corner now http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net Ok here is our final 2008 NFL Mock Draft. Glad we got the first pick right and guaranteed not to get all 32 thanks to the Patriots, but never came close anyway http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net So now Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis after yesterday denying the Redskins made an offer for WR Chad Johnson, is denying the denial. Ok he didn't deny he denied it, but he does now say it's true. Good to know you can trust they guys isn't it? Anyway still like that they turned it down and are daring him to sit out http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis is denying the ESPN report of the Redskins offer for WR Ocho Stinky, but that doesn't mean they have any interest in trading him either. Lewis told the CIncinnati Enquirer that Johnson should keep his word and sit out the year... sounds like a plan we can endorse http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Bengals may be nuts, is this news? According to ESPN the Bengals have turned down an offer from the Washington Redskins for WR Chad Johnson... a first round pick this year, #21 overall, and a conditional third round pick next year that could escalate to a first rounder! Also they have told the Eagles and Cowboys they are not interested in trading the malcontent childish receiver. Hey were all for demanding players knock off the cry baby crap, threatening to hold out for the year etc. It's not like Johnson is not being paid well, he is. He can rot while others play the game for all we care, same should have been done with T.O. when he was whining to get out of the deal that had him go to the Ravens to end up in Philly, how well did that work out? Johnson is making enemies and we like the Bengals stand but it must hurt to pass up an offer like that http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net So it's time to release our first 2008 NFL Mock Draft - another will come Friday before the draft. There is lots of intrigue and different scenarios and some trades will factor in of course, but we'll take a look where things are at now. See our 2008 NFL Mock Draft http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The NFL draft is a crapshoot and the 2008 version appears to be a little more than usual. No true #1 pick, some safer picks, some with more upside.... then there is the one constant, the danger of drafting a wide receiver in round one. Rookie receivers usually do not make a big impact, junior wide receivers may be flashy choices but are even more dangerous. This year the name moving up the charts is Devin Thomas... who? He is from Michigan State and a one year wonder. Let's see a junior with only one year of production, runs fast and has good size.. shoot him up the board.... danger! What about a couple receivers who were consider near the top - Mario Manningham and Malcolm Kelly - both juniors and both falling down the boards. Neither ran a quality 40 time, but they have excuses. Those are part of the problem. Manningham lied about failing drug tests in college, then admitted to it and then sounded like an idiot on a national radio show. He clearly doesn't get it, but it appears NFL GM's do and there is little chance he goes in round one now. Kelly didn't run well and blamed his school for changing the surface he was to run on.... you see he had special shoes and everything. Ok this shoe thing is true of everyone now a days (ugh) but to come out and bash the school was an immature and dumb move on his part. Why do people get so caught up on a 40 time of someone on a track with special shoes when they have been preparing to run this drill for months. Are they ever asked to run the 40 without pads and in tracks shoes during a game? Jerry Rice ran a 4.55 40 coming out of college but didn't look that slow when the speedy Redskins corner Darrell Green was chasing him... who really cares. I understand it has some value but it is far too overrated. How many times do receivers run in the 4.3s and then you hear people say that team needs receivers you can stretch the field and their current group isn't getting it done. The 40 speed doesn't make them a deep threat. Even better there have been top track guys playing receiver in the NFL and referred to as more of a possession guy... not saying the assessment was wrong but pointing out they were track stars just a couple years ago... NFL speed is different than track speed. Being fast at one doesn't make you fast at the other, get it? There are plenty of teams needing a receiver and some will reach for one, more will regret than will rejoice and fans will be excited in April and forget their names in October... such is life in the NFL in April http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Bengals added WR Doug Gabriel on a one year deal to try an add some depth after releasing Chris Henry. The former Raider and Patriot was out of football last year, but had a lot of undeveloped promise earlier in his career http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Bengals finally lost their patience with WR Chris Henry and released the troubled soul. This while he was in jail awaiting arraignment on assault charges, his 5th arrest in less than 4 years. Henry is clearly a telanted receiver, but as the judge called him "a one-man crime wave" you get the point http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Bengals and WR Chad Johnson are having a long off season and while it gives the media something to discuss these issues are about the same, switch the player and team each. Threats to sit out the year, I'll never play for tat team again blah blah blah. The Bengals are not new to having issues of course so you'd think they would be good at this. The team says they will not trade him and are ready to move on without him. Oh how we love these little dramas, especially the ones that in Drew Rosenhaus tho he has been rather quiet in this one so far http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Colts chose not to match the offer sheet signed by TE Ben Utecht with the Cincinnati Bengals, so Utecht becomes a member of the Bengals http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Bengals have signed former Cardinals LB Brandon Johnson http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net Bengals offensive lineman Stacey Andrews has signed his one year franchise tender worth $7.455 million http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Bengals have signed Colts restricted free agent TE Ben Utecht to a 3 year offer sheet. The Colts have a week to match or get nothing in return as he was undrafted out of college and received the low tender http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Bengals have resigned LB Roy Manning to a one year deal after releasing him earlier this off season http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Carolina Panthers have signed former Bengals LB Landon Johnson http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Bengals have signed former Titans DE Antwan Odom to a 5 year $30 million contract with $11 million guaranteed http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Bengals missed out on DT Shaun Rodgers and now are looking for a less dominant, but possibly better pick regardless, Jets DT Dewayne Robertson. The trade rumors are contingent on agreeing to a new contract and would keep the Bengals as a 4-3 defense where Robertson could go back to a 3 technique he excels at instead of playing the nose as he was in New York. The Bengals are also visiting with Titans free agent DE Antwan Odom http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The 49ers got their main target in free agency, former Bengals DE Justin Smith. He was scheduled to fly to Minnesota Saturday but the 49ers didn't let him get away, agreeing on a 6 year $45 million deal with $20 million guaranteed http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Lions finally got a trade done for DT Shaun Rogers who now goes to CLeveland for CB Leigh Bodden and a third round pick http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net SO Lions DT Shaun Rogers was headed to Cincinnati wasn't he... must be dealing with the Bungals again... or maybe they got smart, hard to say but it appears the trade may have fallen through. Reports out of Detroit say the deal may have fallen through and now Cleveland is possible, no word on what happened but it should get sorted out quick as the Lions need to move him to avoid his roster bonus http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Lions have traded DT Shaun Rogers, but not to Denver... instead the Bengals came a calling and gave up a 3rd and 5th round pick to get Rodgers. They have also resigned LB Dhani Jones http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Vikings have agreed to a contract with former Bengals safety Madieu Williams. It is a 6 year $33 million deal that put him near the top for safeties in the league. A good but very expensive signing for the Vikings and definitely a loss for the Bengals who knew this was coming. The Vikings are being very aggressive this year as they look to improve fast http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net ESPN is reporting Bengals DE Justin Smith will first visit the 49ers and then Minnesota... don't count on him leaving San Francisco though. He is clearly the 49ers top target and it's very unlikely they will not get him. The Vikings are looking to make a big splash and have others targeted for their cash as well http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Bengals hoped to keep DE Justin Smith, well maybe wished was more like it... the Vikings and 49ers are both after him and which ever team he visits first will make a big push, but odds are he is signed by mid afternoon http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Bengals have resigned WR Antonio Chatman and DE Jonathan Fanene http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Bengals have placed the franchise tag on guard Stacy Andrews, that is a $7.455 million one year deal unless they agree to a long term contract. Makes you wonder how long until there is an $8 million guard? Everyone went nuts over Nate Clements supposed $80 million deal last year, but it is now officially a 7 year $63 million deal now. Still $9 million for a corner is a lot but even interior lineman are not that far behind. It will be very interesting as some of the premier players at their position get near free agency under these higher salary cap numbers http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net Ah yes tax time is near and the pain of seeing how much money we fork over to cause deep pain in our stomachs. Then of course there is all the good that comes from it, such as members of congress spending the day listening to the he said she said of Roger Clemens and Brian McNamee (don't forget Andy Pettitte too) and now a new wonderful word "Nannygate", ugh what has this world come to? Add to that Arlen Specter grilling NFL commissioner Roger Goodell over the spygate issue, threatening congressional hearings and the league's antitrust exemption. Do these blowhard's not have anything better to do with their days??? Do we not have any serious issues to be tackled in this great country that we have time to bicker and seek headlines with this crap? Hey guys call me when you fix the economy, health care, homelessness in this rich country and a list longer than.... then we can get around to which retired baseball players did what. Other than Barry Bonds the rest of this is ridiculous and makes me not want to pay attention to the sports we all love so much. This country has become addicted to soap opera's and reality crap where everyone wants their 15 minutes. It's not like this is all brand new, the Steelers of the 70s admittedly used steroids and they certainly were not alone but no one is calling to take back their Super Bowl wins. Lester Hayes is probably my favorite corner of all time, but he reported used something to help him get a better grip. Can we all just move on and focus on trying to fix things rather than going over the top about the past. Either way Roger was dominant, the Patriots were superior and as much as it pains us Bonds was a Hall of Famer before they all crossed the line http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net Filling in at the Pro Bowl Bengals WR Chad Johnson keeps running his month... does anyone really care anymore? He little childish antics have grown old and while certainly talented who would be so eager to trade for him even if the Bengals would agree to it http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net According to the Cincinnati Enquirer the Bengals will not be trading Ocho Cinco, otherwise known as Chad Johnson this off season. Many rumors have flown and Johnson has helped them along, but according to the head coach he is staying put. That doesn't guarantee it, so wait and see http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Bengals interviewed former Falcons defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer for the same role. Zimmer is a good coach... however we understand the head coach can't focus solely on one side of the ball but makes us wonder if maybe he shouldn't spend a little extra of his time in those meetings and practices. Reminds you that some coaches are great coordinators and just because they are the hots names doesn't make them good head coaches or able to cure that side of the ball if hired. Just ask Brian Billick, who if not for the Ravens defenses would have been canned after a couple years rather than nine http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The 49ers will interview former Georgia Tech head coach Chan Gailey who was fired after this past season for the offensive coordinator job according to Matt Maiocco. Gailey has the reputation of a good offensive mind but not always the results to back it up. Brian Billick may take a year off and Mike Martz isn't a possibility despite Nolan throwing his name out there. This leaves Gailey and Cam Cameron as the obvious choices, but Cameron may take his time in deciding where to go next. Bengals QB coach Ken Zampese was Nolan's choice last year after Norv Turner left, but the Bengals wouldn't allow him to interview for the spot at that time http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net Carson Palmer called for changes, Marvin Lewis wants change and Wednesday defensive coordinator Chuck Bresnahan was dumped according to ESPN. He is the third coordinator under Lewis and the defense has never been a strength, leads us to ask- wasn't he a top defensive coordinator? Where is his influence? Many offensive coaches still run the offense when they take over but that is very rare with the defensive coaches... interesting. The players he has been given are certainly part of it and that is Lewis' complaint. LB coach Ricky Hunley also was let go and more changes are likely coming for a team that surprisingly stunk this year http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net Cincinnati Bengals QB Carson Palmer threw the coaching staff under the bus after the season according to the team's web site. Asked if he thought the same coaching staff could turn it from being stale, Palmer said, "I don't think so," but he also said he doesn't know if Lewis will make those changes. Lewis is said to want dramatic changes. He is safe to stay but the defensive staff should be blown up and some changes will come to the offense too. It was a very very frustrating year, but it's not good to have your QB making headlines like this either, we thought that was Chad Johnson's job http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The NFL suffered a tragedy with the loss of Redskins safety Sean Taylor who was shot in his home during a suspected buglary, he was 24 years old. We extend our sympathy to Sean's family, friends and teammates http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net Great to see those individuals who are truly saddened by their mistakes and who have atoned get a second chance, this is America after all.. so with that we heartily welcome Ricky Williams back to the NFL, oh wait he used his second chance years ago. Maybe he should play for the Bengals where he would fit right in and cats have nine lives anyway http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Seahawks pulled out a great win at the end against the Bengals, 24-21. With one minute remaining Nate Burleson caught a 22 yard TD on a perfect throw from Matt Hasselbeck. Of course that left plenty of time for Carson Palmer who threw for 342 yards 1 TD and a pair of INTs already... but on the ensuing kickoff Glenn Holt fumbled and the Seahawks recovered ending the game with Palmer not getting a chance. It was a close tough game from start to finish including a safety of Hasselbeck by Lemar Marshall and T.J. Houshmandzadeh catching 12 balls for 141 yards and a TD http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The questions in the Bengals and Seahawks game today may be decided by which Bengals defense shows up. The tough and aggressive group we saw in week one or the joke of an attempt at defense from last week. If the later this game will be over, and quick http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Cincinnati Bengals have added veteran LB Dhani Jones to add some depth. They look to improve this week against the Seahawks after a horrible performance against the Browns last Sunday. Not much could be worse after giving up 51 to Cleveland so you figure it has to get better, but the Seahawks and Shaun Alexander are licking their chops http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net What a stunning game in Cleveland. The morbid franchise left for dead came out swinging and put up 51 points, and the Bengals who we thought had an energized defense last week found this week that they were just lucky, well not this week though. Browns QB Derek Anderson may not be the savior, but after a 328 yard and 5 TD performance it will silence the calls for Brady Quinn for at least a week. RB Jamal Lewis also came to life with a 216 yard day torching the Bengals defense which was correctly thought to be a weakness coming into the year. The Bengals offense put 45 in the loss but proved not to be enough, not that is saying something http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net We knew the Bengals offense would be good and Chad Johnson would show off, but how about the defense? The unit showed up to play and was aggressive all over the field. That would be a very good sign for the rest of the season. Not the most impressive victory over the Ravens to open the year... when the other team turns it over 6 times you shouldn't have the game come down to the wire but still a win is a win http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net Is Chad Johnson going into the Hall of Fame? His latest TD celebration had him putting on an old ESPN jacket with HOF and the year as ?'s on the back. Confidence he doesn't lack, but he has some wok to do if he wants to end up in Canton. Not a great celebration, but at least he was smart enough to do it on the sidelines where it didn't draw a penalty against the team http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net Return man and a shifty little receiver, the Bengals released Antonio Chatman so they could sign rookie center Dan Santucci, who they drafted this year in the 7th round. Santucci was cut and then signed to the Colts practice squad so the Bengals had to sign him to the active roster to get him back http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis had surgery on his ankle and is listed as probable for this week. Way to tough it out, back to work in a cast http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net Here is a great article by Fox Sports' John Czarnecki about how the NFL rookie are being paid way too much. "It doesn't make sense that LaRon Landry is the highest paid safety in the game," Cowboys executive Stephen Jones told me. "And that Joe Thomas (Cleveland's top pick) has a better deal than Tom Brady. For example, Chiefs running back Larry Johnson signed yesterday for less guaranteed money than what Johnson and Thomas collected, and only a moron would say those rookies deserve more than one of the NFL's best running backs... we're right there with you John, good work http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Bengals got starting left tackle Levi Jones back at practice today, a welcome sight for all. Jones will be ready for the season and will get some wok in the final two preseason games, but his knees will be a concern all year http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net Bengals OLB Eric Henderson suffered a broken hand at the end of the preseason game this week http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net Dumb and dumber again in Cincinnati... according to the Cincinnati Enquirer Bengals LB Odell Thurman has surrendered to authorities to answer to allegations that he violated his probation for drunk driving http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Bengals signed first round pick CB Leon Hall to a 5 year deal worth up to $13.6 million with $8.2 million guaranteed according to the Cincinnati Enquirer. He missed the first two practices of camp but will look to make up for that quickly http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Bengals got 2nd round pick RB Kenny Irons signed before camp to a 4 year deal according to the Cincinnati Enquirer http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net Bengals LB Odell Thurman lost his appeal of his year long suspension. What are the odds he stays out of trouble until he stands in front of the commissioner again to apply for re-instatement after the 2007 season? Well anything is possible but the odds are against him in Cincy http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net ANother news item about a 'voluntary' practice... Bengals CB Deltha O'Neal wasn't in attendance for the team's OTA Wednesday according to the Cincinnati Enquirer. O'Neal didn't have a good year last season and was looking to rebound... isn't the whole team http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net A team seemingly always in need of defensive lineman, the Denver Broncos have signed former Bengals run stuffer Sam Adams to a one year deal. Adams is a huge presence inside and able to command double teams, the biggest concern is his staying healthy though that isn't as real a concern as some make it seem. The Bengals defense stunk last year but the passing game was much to blame as they were 15th in run defense. The Bengals will be without two big bodies from last year in Adams and Shaun Smith who left for Cleveland earlier as a restricted free agent http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Bengals needed to upgrade their secondary and lucked into the fall of Leon Hall, who was regarded in the top 10 and they stole at #18. He will make a big impact for the Bengals. They couldn~t be much happier how things worked out http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Cincinnati Bengals were worried but in the end retained OG Stacy Andrews as he signed his one year tender as a restricted free agent. The New York Jets had considered making him an offer but never did http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Cincinnati Bengals have signed former Broncos DT Michael Myers to a 2 year deal worth $1.65 million including a $100,000 signing bonus according to the NFL Network. Myers will help solidify the rotation inside for the Bengals and let them focus on other parts of the defense early in the draft http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Cincinnati Bengals are visiting with former Falcons LB Ed Hartwell who head coach Marvin Lewis knows from their time together in Baltimore where Hartwell made his name http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Cincinnati Bengals are looking for a veteran defensive lineman before the draft, Broncos DT Michael Myers and Bears DT Ian Scott are making visits as did potential backup QB Tim Rattay http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The New England Patriots have agreed to terms with former Bengals cornerback Tory James. He will sign a one year deal worth $1.35 that could be worth up to $2.7 million with incentives according to the Boston Globe. The 34 year old veteran will provide some depth in the secondary for the Patriots who always seem to lacking it there due to injuries. James has been durable and productive, he is a savvy veteran and should do well in the Patriots scheme. The move lessens the need to add a corner early in the draft though a safety is still likely http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net Bengals WR Chris Henry got re-instated, not with the NFL, but he did get his drivers license back according to the Cincinnati Enquirer. Guess this will make it easier to get to and from trouble now http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The New York Giants bolstered their depth by signing DT Marcus Bell and defensive back Michael Stone, they also agreed to terms on a 2 year deal for QB Anthony Wright to backup Eli Manning according to the Star-Ledger. Super bust WR Charles Rodgers was also in for a workout as he tries (sort of) to get back into the league, no confirmation of the reported yawns during his running of the 40, though we did confirm no one actually fell asleep before he crossed the finish line (good thing he ran it midday). It is Stone's 4th team in four years, he played in a couple games last year for the Texans. Bell was released earlier this off season by the Lions. Wright was with the Bengals last year and the Ravens before that where he started 14 games in 4 years http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The New York Jets met with both Bengals offensive lineman Stacy Andrews and Patriots cornerback, both restricted free agents, but those visits ended without any offers according to a Newsday report http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net Titans cornerback Adam Pacman Jones was suspended for one year under the new NFL conduct policy and Bengals wide receiver Chris Henry was suspended for 8 games. Each player must avoid further run ins with the law and meet with the team's player development director once a week among other requirements, but since we doubt they will get past those we'll stop there http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net Bengals restricted free agent guard Stacy Andrews in in New York visiting with the Jets along with Patriots cornerback Randall Gay today according to the Cincinnati Enquirer http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net Bengals WR Chris Henry and Titans cornerback Adam Jones, aka Pacman with dollar bills, are going to be suspended under the new league rules by commissioner Roger Goodell according to the Washington Post as son as today or tomorrow. They each have repeated offenses off the field. This may actually help each of them so they don't have to bring in a note from their awyer saying they were in court to miss a day of practice http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net Bengals WR Chris Henry just can't stay out of trouble. Now he has been cited for three traffic violations, driving with a suspended license and without a seat belt, and failing to signal. Not earth shattering crimes, especially if you are a Bengal, but if your license is suspended you knew what you were doing http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The NFL announced the prime time games for the opening weekend at the owners meeting. The Saints will travel to Indianapolis in the opening game Thursday night. The Sunday afternoon national game features the Bears traveling to San Diego where new head coach Norv Turner will face off against his brother, Bears offensive coordinator Ron Turner. The Sunday night game is Giants at the Cowboys and as last year there are a pair off Monday night games. First the Ravens travel to Cincinnati and then the Cardinals visit the 49ers in San Francisco http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Bengals have resigned punter Kyle Larson to a one year $1.2 million contract, Larson was a restricted free agent http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net Linebacker Joey Porter may now be a member of the Miami Dolphins, but he still has some Pittsburgh Steeler in his blood. According to the Las Vegas Review Journal he was cited for misdemeanor battery after allegedly punching Bengals left tackle Levi Jones over the weekend. Just wanted the Dolphins wanted to see from new highly paid free agent we're sure http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Cincinnati Bengals signed former Cardinals center Alex Stepanovich to a one year deal. The Bengals lost Eric Steinbach in free agency and center Rich Braham to retirement and Stepanovich will step right in for Braham http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Cincinnati Bengals decided not to match the offer sheet for DT Shaun Smith from the Cleveland Browns. That means he is now a Brown and will make a push for the starting nose tackle job. Like all nose tackles don't bother looking at his stats, he is just there to take up space and two blockers and Smith is powerful enough for that role http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The New Orleans Saints have signed former Bengals safety Kevin Kaesviharn to a 4 year $10 million contract with a $3.25 million signing bonus according to ESPN. Kaesviharn will help in coverage and the move provides better depth at safety where Roman Harper is coming off a knee surgery. Along with Josh Bullocks they will be much improved in 2007 http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net Daniel Snyder has moved to Boston... ok maybe not but Robert Kraft and the Patriots are sure being aggressive in free agency. Add former Bengals WR Kelley Washington to their catch. Just as with Donte' Stallworth's contract it has protection according to ESPN. It can be a one year deal or a max of 5 years for $22 million. Washington has great size, speed and talent and is a great addition to what is quickly becoming a deep group of receivers. The Dolphins were also after Washington http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Cleveland Browns already got Eric Steinbach from the Bengals, now they have signed defensive tackle Shaun Smith to an offer sheet. The Bengals have a week to match or will receive no compensation http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Bengals may be looking to sign backup QB Patrick Ramsey, who they tried to trade for last year. There is limited cap space in Cincy but they will open up some room in the next few days http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net Bengals tight end Reggie Kelly took a quick tour in free agency but decided to return home and signed a 3 year deal with the Bengals Tuesday http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net Bengals linebacker A.J. Nicholson got off easy with 60 days in a work program and two years probation after pleading no contest to burglary and grand theft according to an AP report. Maybe the Bengals can setup a work program near their facility to help the growing number of players who are getting their second jobs http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The New Orleans Saints have signed former Bengals LB Brian Simmons to a 3 year deal. Simmons is a good player who has been durable prior to missing 5 games last year with a neck strain. Most importantly he was one of the few (or so it seems) Bengals that wasn't in legal trouble. He is a solid linebacker who can play any of the 3 spots for the Saints http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Miami Dolphins have signed former Steelers LB Joey Porter to a 5 year $32.5 million deal with $20 million guaranteed according to the NFL Network. Dom Capers will be looking forward to working him into his defense http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Bengals and Dolphins will vie for former Steelers OLB Joey Porter. As we reported earlier the Dolphins were a team to watch, their interest has now been confirmed by numerous outlets. The 49ers and Cowboys were two other teams that could have been interested but neither is likely to get into the mix. The Chargers were also mentioned but they have a solid group of linebackers already. The Dolphins are probably the better fit but in Cincinnati he would get to face his former team twice a year http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net Bengals tight end Reggie Kelly has been traveling the last few days but that may be about to come to an end soon. He has visited the Raiders and Cardinals in the past few days and the Bengals are still in the mix as well. A decision should be coming soon http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The New Orleans Saints will bring in Bengals S Kevin Kaesviharn and 49ers TE Eric Johnson for a visit Tuesday. The Saints have been looking to upgrade the safety spot and previously hosted Ken Hamlin. Johnson is looking for a starting job, he is an excellent receiver but has been injury prone as well http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Saints are looking to upgrade the linebacker position. According to the Times-Picayune they will have Panthers LB Chris Draft in for a visit today while Adam Schefter of the NFL Network is reporting they will sign former Bengals LB Brian Simmons today. The Saints are focusing on defense with safety being the other position so far. Expect some help at corner to come as well http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net Former Steelers OLB Joey Porter is looking to cash in after being released. The Browns are out of the race after signing Antwan Peek. The Bengals are interested and the Cowboys and 49ers could show interest as well. He will be 30 years old later this month and after not having a great season some wonder if he will have great production going forward. He still can get after the passer if he has less responsibilities to drop in coverage and could do well rotating in and out at linebacker in a 3-4 or as a rush end for the Bengals. Another team to watch would be the Dolphins where Dom Capers would get the best out of him http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Falcons have signed former Bengals LB Marcus Wilkins to a 3 year deal worth $3.5 million according to the Cincinnati Enquirer http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Bengals have reigned their third down back Kenny Watson http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Cleveland Browns have signed former Bengals OG Eric Steinbach to a 7 year $49 million deal. This is the second year in a row the Browns made a major addition on the offensive line, hopefully this one works out better than last year when LeCharles Bentley never made it to the field http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The rumors are floating in Cincinnati of former Steelers OLB Joey Porter signing soon with the Bengals. He is a 3-4 outside linebacker but would be a situation pass rusher if he signed with the Bengals, and wouldn't that be interesting http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net According to ESPN Bengals guard Eric Steinbach is visiting Cleveland, follwed by Tampa Bay and Seattle if he isn't yet signed http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net Tomorrow morning isn't Christmas but may seem like it in some NFL cities as free agency begins . There will be some quick signing and the sticker price will shock and awe http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Cincinnati Bengals have released LB Brian Simmons saving the team almost $3 million in cap space. Simmons will turn 32 before the start of the season and the Bengals chose to go younger http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Bengals are the first team to use their franchise tag this year by locking up defensive end Justin Smith. He is now guaranteed a one year deal for $8.6 million and is off the market. Technically teams can still negotiate with him but no one is too hot to trade for him and the Bengals want him back so that is it except for the hard feelings http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net Bengals guard Eric Steinbach figures to be popular and well paid come next month. There are many reports as to teams that are interested, none include Cincinnati who is moving on. The Browns are an obvious team with their troubles on the line and the fact they have plenty of cap room. Peter King had reported during the season of the 49ers interest, though we question that. The Cardinals, Bills, Bears, Cowboys, Lions and Bucs all figure to show interest, among others who will take a look http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net Bengals.com is reporting the Bengals are considering using the franchise tag on DE Justin Smith. The team clearly wants to keep him, but is he really worth $8.6 million?? He led the line in tackles and has been a more than solid player, but can anyone make an argument he is one of the top 10 ends in the league? Didn't think so. This is how contracts get inflated and will also make long term negotiations harder as that franchise figure will play into negotiations of his value and his agent seeing that as the starting point http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net Despite some rumors that Philadelphia Eagles head coach Andy Reid may resign due to his family issues, we have it from good sources that the Cincinnati Bengals will not trade for him. There was speculation they would offer CB Johnathan Joseph, their first round pick and a felon to be named later for Andy Reid. But again we have confirmed they will not make the trade offer http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net The Chicago Bears could target Bengals guard Eric Steinbach who is from the Chicago area according to the Chicago Tribune. The Bears would like to upgrade the line and will add depth through the draft as well http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net Bengals CB Johnathan Joseph plead not guilty to marijuana possession, but the mere fact he is a Bengal almost makes him guilty. Soon it will be better to ask what is the team smoking http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26 PFInsider.net Cincinnati Bengals QB Doug Johnson resigned with the team on a one year deal to backup Carson Palmer http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=26