Waiting for most of the offseason to see if he would find work, Terrell Owens has finally signed a one year 2 million dollar contract with the Cincinnatti Bengals. After a one year experiment playing with the Buffalo Bills, Owens finds himself playing for a former AFC North Division Champion with Super Bowl aspirations. Owens avoided controversy and negative attention despite playing for one of the NFL's more disappointing organizations. Patience finally paid off for the outspoken receiver, as he found himself being recuited for his services, drawing attention from the Rams, Jets and Bengals. In the end, winning, and a chance to play with his good friend, Ochocinco, Owens agreed to bring the popcorn to Cincy.
Cincinnatti was one of the biggest suprises of the 2009 season. Cedric Benson finally earned his first round status by rushing for career highs and Pro Bowl caliber play. The offensive line gelled, which provided the holes needed for Benson to use his aggressive, brash style to churn yards upfield. Benson's elevated play earned him praise across the league after washing out for the Chicago Bears.
Despite a solid running game and a stingy, run stuffing defense, Cincinnatti found itself eliminated by the New York Jets, who luckily managed to sneak into the playoffs with a 9-7 record and odds stacked against them. Nonetheless, even though the Bengals were able to win the AFC North and make the playoffs, the lack of a strong passing game and consistent pass rush led to a early exit.
During the offseason, the Bengals tried to bolster the passing game with the signing of Antonio Bryant, who came off a inconsistent stint in Tampa Bay. Bryant's addition gave Carson Palmer another target to look for when Chad Ochocinco found himself facing the secondary's attention. The 2010 NFL draft brought in Texas standout, Jordan Shipley, Kansas star Dezmon Briscoe, and Oklahoma tight end phenom, Jermaine Gresham. However, even with the talent added in free agency and the draft, the Bengals were determined to return the passing game to elite form.
Terrell Owens may be 36 and in the twilight of his Hall Of Fame contending career, yet still brings instant yards to any offense looking for his services, so long as the headaches don't outweigh the benefits and kill locker room chemistry. Owens combined with OchoCinco, Bryant, Shipley and Gresham provide Palmer all the necessary weapons to keep defenses honest.
Owens will likely contend for the number two spot opposite of Ochocinco and should help Ochocinco face less double teams. If Owens keeps his cool, and the Bengals are winning, the situation looks to benefits both parties. Only time will tell how the marriage will work out, but on paper, defensive coordinators will have plenty to plan for.
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