Cedric Benson was the workhorse in the Bengals backfield in 2009 and that does not seem to be changing in 2010. He is one of the few backs in the NFL who is a true "feature" back. The amount of carries in '09 did seem to catch up to him, but with newcomers Terrell Owens and Antonio Bryant, the Bengals will put more emphasis on the passing game this year. Marvin Lewis will find ways to get Benson involved and even with a few less carries he should still produce good number. Don't overpay for Benson and if you can get him as your number 2 RB you should be in pretty good shape.
-Projection: 1,400 yards rushing, 8 TDs; 15-20 receptions, 100 yards receiving, 1 TD
Carson Palmer did not have a terrible season in 2009, but it is not what he is (or was) capable of. With some new weapons around him I believe that Palmer could be a nice surprise at QB this year. One of the most attractive things about Palmer is he will most likely be around late enough to grab as a backup. Behind an improved offensive line Palmer could revert back to form before his injuries in 2008. As a backup Palmer is a low risk and potentially high reward type of player.
-Projection: 3,200-3,400 yards, 22-25 TDs, 12-14 INTs; 80 yards rushing, 2 TDs
Chad Ocho Cinco shut his mouth and played football last season, and the results spoke for them self. Following a nasty 2008 with the coaching staff, Ocho Cinco showed he still had something left in the tank. He even put up a good season without much help around him. The Bengals will pass the ball more this year, leading to more targets for Ocho Cinco, and possibly better totals. He is a good number 2 option in fantasy, but make sure you have a solid backup if the Ocho Cinco and T.O. relationship goes sour.
-Projection: 70-80 receptions, 1,100 yards, 6-8 TDs
Terrell Owens
may have gotten just what he needs in landing with the Bengals, a number one receiver. He does not possess the skill he did in years past but he stays in incredible shape and can still make some plays. Not being the focal point of an offense should also help him produce more steadily. Owens is not a terrible 3 option and should not go very high in fantasy drafts.
-Projection: 60 receptions, 850 yards, 5 TDs
When he signed with Cincinnati, Antonio Bryant was slated as the number 2 WR. Now with Owens in the mix Bryant will most likely play the slot. Some players thrive in the slot, others disappear. With Bryant I can honestly say I am unsure of which way he will go. If he takes his role in stride he could blossom as a number 3. If he is upset with the downgrade, the stats will show it. Bryant is one player to watch, especially if he goes undrafted, because of the presence of Owens.
Projection: 45 receptions, 600 yards, 4 TDs
Jermaine Gresham had a great career at Oklahoma and he is a very hard worker. His size at the TE position could quickly make him one of Carson Palmer's favorite targets. With the three other WRs mentioned already Gresham could fly under the radar of opposing defenses, especially in the red zone. Right now he is no better than a low-end number 2, but could have great value as a keeper in years to come.
-Projection: 30-40 receptions, 400 yards, 4 TDs
The Bengals defense does not have any standout IDPs who will get enough stats to warrant their own spot. 2 LBs who could produce points in deep leagues are Keith Rivers and Dhaini Jones. Rivers was injured last year and Jones is now starting. They might not be worth a draft spot, but could be good waiver wire additions during the season.
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