Texans Bringing in Cedric Benson/Signs with Bengals

[AJfan]

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/front/6288717.html

He could come cheaper than Ward, and I think would be a nice complement to Slaton...

[houstonsportsfan09]

No thanks, I'd still rather have Ward or draft a back. Wonder what makes us want to bring him in now. Weren't we suppose to last year, and then either Kubiak or Smith said no or something, or Benson said no. Someone in management said no to bringing him in, if I remember right.

[zanth91]

Ward $$$ > Benson $$

I'll take Ward even if he costs more.

[doodyps]

Benson IS mediocrity. No thanks. Pay Ward. He can run.

As fans, we need to stop stressing out about the salary cap too much. Signing Ward to 4mil a year would not cripple our cap. Just give him Green's money. This isn't a 30mil guaranteed situation.

[UCLA_COLT]

Lucky *******s don't know how lucky you are to have Darius Walker. :mad:

[TexansFan03]

going to college here in Ohio, I've (unfortunantly) only really been able to watch the Bengals. Cedric Benson has performed really good the last couple of months and from what I remember, was getting like 4-5 yards per carry down the stretch.

I hope they bring him in but you can count on us signing another back on draft day 2. Probably 4-5 round.

[houstonsportsfan09]

Lucky *******s don't know how lucky you are to have Darius Walker. :mad:

Darius Walker is not on our team:confused:

[UCLA_COLT]

Darius Walker is not on our team:confused:

I thought he was on the PS? :confused:

[D Frank]

i dont mind benson coming here, dont know how his blocking is but he runs hard.

[WaldovonPutz]

Well, another shoe drops. I was wondering what they had in mind for a running back. Can't really say Benson is a turn on because he played good enough at the end of last season to command a decent salary, hence he won't be extra cheap. Hope we wouldn't overpay for him.

[ANDRE=FRANCHISE]

Who cares if we have Darius Walker or not ?

The FO liked RB - Chris "OW, it hurts" Brown, and RB - Ahman "I've got an OWW-EEE" Green, better than Walker.


So that tells u they didn't think that highly of Walker. Tells me they won't let him play until he's over 30.



And its possible that Darius Walker is the next Priest Holmes, and our FO is BAD.

[therealx9]

darius really impressed me for the limited time he spent.

[GoldenHolden]

Running backs are going pretty cheap this offseason. Benson could be had for a low price. If he wants more then we probobly won't offer it to him. I know everybody wants Ward but I'm not sold on him. The Giants had 3 rb's run for over 5 yards a carry. That tells me his success could be because of the Giants scheme or a good offensive line. I am not a huge Benson fan because he has only had 2 good months as a pro but I don't mind him if we can get him at a good price.

[Wolf123]

I'd rather just draft one in the 4th or 5th round.

[houstonsportsfan09]

I thought he was on the PS? :confused:

Well now that the season is over there is no PS and I checked the Injured Reserve and Full Roster and no DW name anywhere to be seen.

[WaldovonPutz]

Running backs are going pretty cheap this offseason. Benson could be had for a low price. If he wants more then we probobly won't offer it to him. I know everybody wants Ward but I'm not sold on him. The Giants had 3 rb's run for over 5 yards a carry. That tells me his success could be because of the Giants scheme or a good offensive line. I am not a huge Benson fan because he has only had 2 good months as a pro but I don't mind him if we can get him at a good price.

I think you are right on. Okay if cheap enough. He was a former number one draft pick but I don't know what happened in the Windy City. And maybe the FO is just taking a look see. They don't have to sign him but why not check it out.

[Yosarian]

Benson has been a disappointment since he came into the league claiming he was going to work harder to be the best back the nfl had ever seen and instead of dedicating himself he has fallen off the track. Perhaps he has learned his lesson and is trying to get his career going int he right direction. Time will tell on that issue.
Is he a good rb?
The verdict is still out on that as far as i am concerned. He has yet to perform to expectations on the field and never could take Tomas Jones job in chicago like he was supposed to. I'm not totally against adding depth to our running game. But if i could pick. I would pick Derrick Ward. I think he has the right work ethic and mindset to be a good player in this league. The way he ran after coming off a broken leg was impressive. He obviously has a great work ethic to recover and run that hard. I like ward and i agree he might not be as spectacular here because the Giants oline is awesome.
But Ward would help this team. Benson..he might help, but the odds are that he will be a disappointment again.

-------------------------
Let's go revive that 100 page cedric Benson thread from last year.

[TheGoaT]

Who cares if we have Darius Walker or not ?

The FO liked RB - Chris "OW, it hurts" Brown, and RB - Ahman "I've got an OWW-EEE" Green, better than Walker.


So that tells u they didn't think that highly of Walker. Tells me they won't let him play until he's over 30.



And its possible that Darius Walker is the next Priest Holmes, and our FO is BAD.

post with your main, Coogbull.

[ThaShark316]

I'd rather just draft one in the 4th or 5th round.

They still are going to do that, lol.

[wildroot]

post with your main, Coogbull.

Huh?

[TheGoaT]

I'm telling him to troll with his main account, which is probably Coogbull. :p

[zanth91]

Huh?

Andre=franchise is Coogbull

[JMac]

Let's hope he's learned his leason and is an absolute bargain with his talent. Being close to home is added excentive to reach his potential. I'm all for it.

[houstonsportsfan09]

Let's hope he's learned his leason and is an absolute bargain with his talent. Being close to home is added excentive to reach his potential. I'm all for it.

And a potential for more trouble. Works both ways.

[GoldenHolden]

And a potential for more trouble. Works both ways.

We could just add a clause in his contract that requires him to stay atleast 100 yds away from any lakes. Problem solved. :)

[Texian]

Just say no to Cedric Benson and YES to Shonn Greene in the 3rd RD or YES to Andre Brown in the 4th RD. Benson is average and ordinary, average and ordinary is 8-8.

[Schaubie Love]

Don't mind the move but would like to add a back through the draft.

How much will the Texans save releasing Chris Brown?

[CPTTexan]

I'm telling him to troll with his main account, which is probably Coogbull. :p

So are you saying that you think Ahman Green and Chris Brown were good additions to the team? It doesn't matter whether it's Coogbull or not, they were horrible pickups who couldn't stay healthy.

And I'm not sold on Benson or Ward at this point. They both looked good last year, but will Benson be a team player and will Ward still want to share the ball as a backup?

[NCSFS42]

Arian Foster Tenn. RB (Projected 2nd-4th Rond Pick)
Solid power runner on struggling team. Disappeared at times when running partner Crompton struggled, but flourished in short yardage situations. A lot of experience playing four years in the SEC as a goal line running back so the transition in defenses that he will face won't be that big of a jump.

Pros: Experience in the SEC, decent size (6-1 217), solid speed for a bigger back. Good receiver out of the backfield as well and isn't limited to just being a goal line back in the nfl.

Cons: struggled senior season (although you could say that for any volunteer), not the best fit for a goal line back, but better frame than anyone else we have on our roster currently. Solid measurables, but doesn't have a huge upside like Brandon Jacobs or Marion Barber.

Why Texans? Easy transition like a said against opposing defenses and good size and will have a solid workout. Potential to be an every down back and could add the power we are looking to add with slaton's speed. May not be the greatest fit for a goal line back but better than anything we have currently.



James Davis RB Clemson (Projected Round: 3rd-4th)
Compact guy who runs with power. Although everyone talks about Spiller at Clemson, he is their leading rusher-of all time. Runs very hard and bursts through the whole very rarely going east or west.

Pros: His knack for hitting the hole hard translates into a guy who can consistently pick you up a few yards. Short guy, hard to see in theback field and explodes into his defenders. Could also be an every down back in the NFL.

Cons: Not ideal size for goal line back, struggled a bit in senior season finding himself in a reduced role. Needs o line to give him a hole in order to get his yardage, doesn't create plays on his own.

Why Texans? Has the strongest burst out of any plus 210 running back coming out this year. Doesn't dance and takes what he can get- what you want in a short yardage back. Could be a great complement to slaton's elusiveness out of the Texans backfield.



Rashad Jennings RB Liberty (Projected Round: 3rd-4th)
This years Matt Forte. Who is liberty? Undefeated D-1 AA team, who is undefeated because of Jennings. Does he have size? How does 6-2 232 sound?

Pros: Great size, very productive, and plays a major role in a dominant team. Winning mentality is always good to have. Good speed for his size (4.6 range).

Cons: Could sneak in the second round (haha...just harder for us to get), doesn't have breakaway speed and played for a small program.

Why Texans? Biggest upside out of any power back in this class. Is a Goal Line back, and doesn't hesisitate in short yardage situations. Has a winning mentality, and a mentality to get in the zone. This guy is my pick to be Slaton's complement, It would just be ideal to get him later in the draft without having to give up an arm and a leg to get him.



Jovorski Lane RB Texas A&M (Projected: Undrafted):
Don't take him in the draft, maybe bring him on the practice squad to see if he can shape up.

Pros: tremendous athlete for his size, has the body of a fatter Jerome Bettis, all time leader in touch downs at A&M and knows how to find the zone and punish defenders. Great hands, decent blocker, experience in the Texans offense (ran under ex coordinator mike sherman)

Cons: Poor attitude, poor work ethic, overweight.


Why Texans? Take a look at him if he loses weight and has impressive combine numbers. His potential has no limit, I have never seen an anyone do the things he does at that size, but he shouldn't be at that size (he is seriously right around 300). Was a solid football player for Lufkin and Texas A&M, but Mike Sherman was a no nonsense guy and limited his touches due to his lack of commitment to losing weight. However he could be a great goal line back IF (big IF) he loses weight and really hits the weightroom before summer.


Others guys to take a look at:
Keiland Williams LSU, Tyrell Sutton Northwestern, Herb Donaldson Western Illinois

[johndoe]

If the numbers are not outrageous this is a no brainer. Bring Cedric in and let him battle it out with a draft pick for the #2 spot behind Slaton. If he would have played the whole year he would have easily been a thousand yard rusher, and at 26 he doesn’t have too much wear and tear like our previous RB acquisitions. I’m willing to take my chances with his off the field issues…

[edo783]

It's the end of the Texans if they do sign Benson. He's useless as a runner, and his attitude will RUIN the team.

Geezz, ya don't think that MIGHT be a bit over the top or anything do ya? By the way, I'm not much in favor of Benson, but I seriously doubt it would ruin the team. This staff has shown they have little time for bad actors and get rid of them in pretty short order.

[ANDRE=FRANCHISE]

THE GOAT

THINKS I'm COOGBULL

THAT's FUNNY

SORRY MR.GOAT, but I'm afraid to let u know that you are horribly wrong most of the time. And this is again, one of them. I'm not coogbull.

I don't even know what coogbull means ?

is it a type of bull ?

or is it a new beverage competition for REDBULL ?

I'm being honest, I don't know ?

And F.Y.I. Miss GOAT, if u don't like COOGBULL, then I'm pretty sure that I will agree with that BULL a lot more often than I agree with the GOAT. Because so far everything that I have read of yours is absolute ignorance. And u come off as quite the DULLARD. No Offence to DULLARDs and not that there is anything wrong with that...if thats what your into.


So CHEERS to COOGBULL, anyone that Miss-GOAT dislikes must have some BRAINS and be a lot closer to REALITY than your BLISSFUL IGNORANCE.

[pure_respect]

Out of curiosity Andre=Franchise, do you model your posting style after Jim Rome's speaking patten? I'm not bashing or being sarcastic, I just see a similarity between the two.

[TexansMVP]

I'd love to bring Benson in, but wouldn't mind if we drafted a young RB either. The kicker for me, like several of you guys, is that if we can bring in Benson for a reasonable price, then I'm all for it. Otherwise we do have the master here in Alex Gibbs so I'm sure he can do wonders Benson or some new rookie.

[Dr. Z]

THE GOAT

THINKS I'm COOGBULL

THAT's FUNNY

SORRY MR.GOAT, but I'm afraid to let u know that you are horribly wrong most of the time. And this is again, one of them. I'm not coogbull.

I don't even know what coogbull means ?

is it a type of bull ?

or is it a new beverage competition for REDBULL ?

I'm being honest, I don't know ?

And F.Y.I. Miss GOAT, if u don't like COOGBULL, then I'm pretty sure that I will agree with that BULL a lot more often than I agree with the GOAT. Because so far everything that I have read of yours is absolute ignorance. And u come off as quite the DULLARD. No Offence to DULLARDs and not that there is anything wrong with that...if thats what your into.


So CHEERS to COOGBULL, anyone that Miss-GOAT dislikes must have some BRAINS and be a lot closer to REALITY than your BLISSFUL IGNORANCE.

haha, you get angry easily. :mad::D

[powerhouse713]

I like this, I suggested this in a few other threads and was promptly shot down. Understandably so. We will probably get him at a bargain and he still way under 30. When he was in Chicago, he did his best when he wasn't the feature back and complemented Thomas Jones. He was a factor in their playoff run a couple years back.Once Thomas Jones left, everything turned south. He played really year last year considering he didn't go through off season workouts and training camp. He won't be asked to do that much, probably 8-12 carries a game and maybe some goal line work. This doesn't stop the FO from drafting someone in the late rounds. As much as I would love Ward, he is looking for starter money and a feature role and he won't get either here. I wont be surprised if Ward ends up signing with Denver or Cincinnati.

[Wolfscar]

Rashad Jennings RB Liberty (Projected Round: 3rd-4th)
This years Matt Forte. Who is liberty? Undefeated D-1 AA team, who is undefeated because of Jennings. Does he have size? How does 6-2 232 sound?


He'd be my pick, but I don't want to draft RB as high as the 3rd. Someone else to think about is PJ Hill in the 4th or 5th. He's not real versatile, but he's a powerful runner who breaks a lot of tackles and would be a good short yardage guy who'd come pretty cheap.

I hope we don't pick up Benson. They guy has an attitude problem, though he did shut his mouth and get on with things a lot better this past season in Cincy. I'd rather pass on him and draft someone with promise though.

And forget about Ward already - we're not going to sign him! Other teams will offer him a starting spot and he's not a power back, which is what we need. He's an all rounder, which a lot of other teams in the league need a whole lot more. They would outbid us and they would offer what we won't: a feature back role.

[fdknuckles]

The Good:
We need a bigger back for Kube's 4th and inches penchant. Love Slaon, but having him take less of a beating down around the goal line sounds good to.

The Bad:
The Texans have never been a team to bring in problem children or those with multiple arrests. When a former #4 overall pick is an unrestricted free agent, it tells you something.

If the price is right and our coaches can scare him straight I'd be interested in a goal line pounder.

[TEXANBRONCO]

benson...schmenson....i dont care who we get:D...i trust KUBIAK and all his decisions concerning the offense...and the defense as far as that goes:D

[wildroot]

It's the end of the Texans if they do sign Benson. He's useless as a runner, and his attitude will RUIN the team.

You kidding? I'm no fan of Benson but try to say something intelligent instead.
He ran for 747 yds (3.5 ave) in 12 games last year which prorated out puts him 4 yds shy of 1000 over 16 games. He ran for 171 yds against Cleveland.

Useless?!? Get a clue.

[TheGoaT]

So are you saying that you think Ahman Green and Chris Brown were good additions to the team? It doesn't matter whether it's Coogbull or not, they were horrible pickups who couldn't stay healthy.

And I'm not sold on Benson or Ward at this point. They both looked good last year, but will Benson be a team player and will Ward still want to share the ball as a backup?

at the time of the intial signing, Green wasnt a bad pickup. It just didnt work out. Chris Brown was picked up for depth, it wasnt like he was brought in to be the main guy. Not every move the team makes will work out, thats the nature of professional sports, but throwing a hissy fit when someone doesn't work out for the best is stupid. All teams have FA signings that dont work out. You should be happy our team is one of the few that builds their team 90% from the draft and only picks up medium grade FAs to fill in gaps. We could be like the Cowboys and Redskins of the league spending 100mil + on a handful of players just to see them not live up to the huge hype.

As far as your question, I dont like Benson myself. Too much of a character risk, and I think Ward wouldnt have a problem sharing with Slaton, but I think he will be too expensive when we can just pick up a guy for cheap in the 3 or 4th round of the draft.

[TheGoaT]

THE GOAT

THINKS I'm COOGBULL

THAT's FUNNY

SORRY MR.GOAT, but I'm afraid to let u know that you are horribly wrong most of the time. And this is again, one of them. I'm not coogbull.

I don't even know what coogbull means ?

is it a type of bull ?

or is it a new beverage competition for REDBULL ?

I'm being honest, I don't know ?

And F.Y.I. Miss GOAT, if u don't like COOGBULL, then I'm pretty sure that I will agree with that BULL a lot more often than I agree with the GOAT. Because so far everything that I have read of yours is absolute ignorance. And u come off as quite the DULLARD. No Offence to DULLARDs and not that there is anything wrong with that...if thats what your into.


So CHEERS to COOGBULL, anyone that Miss-GOAT dislikes must have some BRAINS and be a lot closer to REALITY than your BLISSFUL IGNORANCE.


lol it was a joke retard, maybe you should turn your sarcasm meter back on. Also if you like being in agreement with Coogbull, enjoy yourself, as most of the posters do not agree with his negative demeaner. You might not be the BULL or the GOAT, but I guess you get to be the ***.

[chjoak]

Not a big Benson fan and I'm definitely not a fan of his off field antics. That being said, I would not be pissed if the Texans signed him on 2 conditions...

1. 2-3 year deal at a reasonable price.
2. Escape clause in contract that allows us to terminate remaining years at no recourse if he is arrested or tests positive for drugs.

[CPTTexan]

at the time of the intial signing, Green wasnt a bad pickup. It just didnt work out. Chris Brown was picked up for depth, it wasnt like he was brought in to be the main guy. Not every move the team makes will work out, thats the nature of professional sports, but throwing a hissy fit when someone doesn't work out for the best is stupid. All teams have FA signings that dont work out. You should be happy our team is one of the few that builds their team 90% from the draft and only picks up medium grade FAs to fill in gaps. We could be like the Cowboys and Redskins of the league spending 100mil + on a handful of players just to see them not live up to the huge hype.

As far as your question, I dont like Benson myself. Too much of a character risk, and I think Ward wouldnt have a problem sharing with Slaton, but I think he will be too expensive when we can just pick up a guy for cheap in the 3 or 4th round of the draft.

I assume you're referring to someone else on the throwing a hissy fit about picking up high-profile FA's? I'm glad our team doesn't blow their cap on overpriced FA's who may or may not work out. I'd much rather have young players who want to prove what they've got instead of an veteran who thinks their work speaks for itself.

Like I said I'm not sold on Benson either, and let me phrase the Ward question differently. If he was okay being a compliment to Slaton, would a backup be worth the investment of millions of dollars to sign him?

[Se7en]

Like I said I'm not sold on Benson either, and let me phrase the Ward question differently. If he was okay being a compliment to Slaton, would a backup be worth the investment of millions of dollars to sign him?

I wouldn't exactly call running backs as "back-ups."

He would be the second back that would trade downs with Slaton, but in tough situations we would probably lean more on Slaton. It is not like a back-up QB that sits out all season wanting to see the field.

[TheGoaT]

I assume you're referring to someone else on the throwing a hissy fit about picking up high-profile FA's? I'm glad our team doesn't blow their cap on overpriced FA's who may or may not work out. I'd much rather have young players who want to prove what they've got instead of an veteran who thinks their work speaks for itself.

Like I said I'm not sold on Benson either, and let me phrase the Ward question differently. If he was okay being a compliment to Slaton, would a backup be worth the investment of millions of dollars to sign him?

I wasn't refering to you personally, and as far as Ward, even if he wanted to backup Slaton, I still dont know if its worth the money. I'm kinda on the fence about it. I like Ward, but RBs are so easy to pick up in the draft for cheap.

[Se7en]

man i've been gone to long, got layed off been living out of a box, but man there is a lot of hostility on this board :) be nice guys.

Welcome back Ellis! It has been a long time.

Watch out for Coogbull... Kubes stole his lunch money!

[WaldovonPutz]

man i've been gone to long, got layed off been living out of a box, but man there is a lot of hostility on this board :) be nice guys.

Nice sentiment, but I doubt it will help promote civilized comment on disagreements here, though really there are just a few trash talkers considering the number of readers on the message board. By the way, you have some cute kids!

[Texan Naija]

Talking to Benson, tells me a couple things.

One, that the RBs that the Texans saw are probable to fall to later rounds must not have made a great impression on them to be compliments.

Two, Moats' position on the team seems to only be slightly better then Walker was going into last season. If they are seriously looking at Benson for more then just training camp fodder.

[WaldovonPutz]

Talking to Benson, tells me a couple things.

One, that the RBs that the Texans saw are probable to fall to later rounds must not have made a great impression on them to be compliments.

Two, Moats' position on the team seems to only be slightly better then Walker was going into last season. If they are seriously looking at Benson for more then just training camp fodder.

Agree, but Moats does return kicks pretty well. Look for him to stick around.

[dbruder44]

Fred Taylor got a 2 year 8 million contract from NE, I f we can get Ward between 2-3 aor Benson under 2 I would be happy.

[D Frank]

whats up ELLISUNIT!!! its been TOO long, keep ya head up.

yeah it has been a lil tense here at times, myself included, but
at least this will roll us on to training camp a lil faster:D

I dont mind Benson, i think he can help us. I seen him get a lil
physical last year....

[HoustonTexans4Life]

Ex-Longhorn Benson says he'd like to play for Texans (http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/6289379.html)

Running back Cedric Benson arrived in Houston from Austin today to meet with the Texans, who are looking for a player to back up Steve Slaton.

After filling two needs by signing left defensive end Antonio Smith and backup quarterback Dan Orlovsky, the Texans are looking for a back who complements Slaton, who rushed for 1,282 yards as a rookie and compiled 1,659 yards from scrimmage to go with 10 touchdowns.

“I like being in Texas and Houston’s close to home,” Benson said after arriving at Hobby Airport. “I think the possibility is good (about signing with the Texans), but there’s always a business side to everything.”

Benson, 26, is a Midland native who played at the University of Texas before Chicago selected him with the fourth overall pick in 2005. Released after three years with the Bears, Benson signed with Cincinnati last season and rushed for 747 yards in 10 starts.

Benson was asked why he would accept a backup role with the Texans rather than a starting job with the Bengals.

“The business side here might be better than the business side in Cincinnati,” Benson said about contract negotiations.

“Also, there’s the Super Bowl. I had an opportunity to go to one (with Chicago), and I’d like to go back and win.”

Last year, the Texans weren’t interested in Benson when he was waived by the Bears. They became interested after watching him play for the Bengals and stay out of trouble off the field.

Benson’s legal issues have been cleared up.

“I have matured a little more,” he said. “A young man changes after he turns 21.”

The Bengals are trying to re-sign Benson, who had three 100-yard games for them. He closed the season with 171 and 111 yards in victories over Cleveland and Kansas City. The Bengals finished with a three-game winning streak in which Benson averaged 118.3 yards rushing.

“I think I proved that I’m the player everybody thought I could be,” Benson said. “I think it showed that I can get the job done, being a full-time back and carry the load.”

“Chicago fans asked me what was the difference? I told them it was simple: They gave me the football.”

[johndoe]

In other words...he wants to sign with us if we top what Cincy is willing to give him...

[chjoak]

Makes me wonder if he will truely be content being #2

[Texian]

Yea Rick Smith go ahead and give Mr. 3.5 career avg several million $$$ to sign.

[Se7en]

Yea Rick Smith go ahead and give Mr. 3.5 career avg several million $$$ to sign.

I am not 100% sold on him at the moment, but you need to look at his rise in stats to be fair. His career started off very rough and he seemed to come into his own this last season with the Bengals.

[TransplantTexan1]

All this hooplah over Benson Vs. Ward is stupid. They could bring in a table lamp to be Slaton's backup and it would be an upgrade over Green or Brown. I'm cool with whomever they bring in as long as they are 28 years or younger and don't over pay.

LOL. Bingo.

I think Benson / Ward would both upgrade our short yardage running game. Another credit for Benson is that his running style seems suited for a one-cut system. He doesn't dance a lot, is more of a straight ahead runner, and has a style that's conducive to taking a lot of hits.

He won't be hitting homeruns, though.

If the price is right (and I agree about the behavior clauses), I'm fine with it.

[dbruder44]

Free agent Cedric Benson indicated during his Monday visit with the Texans that he's more concerned with money than role when picking his new team.

Asked why he'd take a backup job to Steve Slaton, Benson said "The business side here might be better than the business side in Cincinnati." The Bengals would feature Benson, but their offer may be less substantial.

We will have a back signed before the sun goes down tommorow I bet..... My guess is it will be Benson

[wildroot]

He'd make a good one-two punch combination with Sleepy. I'm thinking (hoping) that come to Jesus moment he had last year when he was unemployed knocked some sense into his dome.

[dbruder44]

He'd make a good one-two punch combination with Sleepy. I'm thinking (hoping) that come to Jesus moment he had last year when he was unemployed knocked some sense into his dome.

I agree he got a dui and and bui one in a car and one on a boat. Many of us can say we have driven a time or too when we shouldn't weather in a car or a boat. It is not like he got some weapons charges (tank) or is/was under investgation for murder (Pacman) I think he did get a wake up call after his realase and most of us here would give him a second chance but a short leash....

[Texian]

I am not 100% sold on him at the moment, but you need to look at his rise in stats to be fair. His career started off very rough and he seemed to come into his own this last season with the Bengals.

Oh yeah! He blew it out in week 16 and 17 against Cleveland and KC after the season was over and everyone had thrown in the towel. Check his games 1 thru 15. Yep and he still finished with a 3.5 avg. I can't wait.

[NBT]

I don't believe Darrius Walker had any PS time left.

[TexSid]

yeah I am not sold on this idea. Seems like a draft pick could get you the same thing for less money and less trouble.....

[Se7en]

I agree he got a dui and and bui one in a car and one on a boat. Many of us can say we have driven a time or too when we shouldn't weather in a car or a boat. It is not like he got some weapons charges (tank) or is/was under investgation for murder (Pacman) I think he did get a wake up call after his realase and most of us here would give him a second chance but a short leash....

If we do grab him I am sure we will write something into the contract similar to what the COwboys did with Pacman.

[Se7en]

Oh yeah! He blew it out in week 16 and 17 against Cleveland and KC after the season was over and everyone had thrown in the towel. Check his games 1 thru 15. Yep and he still finished with a 3.5 avg. I can't wait.

That and he is not having legal issues. I think he will do well if he is back in Texas closer to his family. He will feel like he is playing at home again in my opinion.

We will just have to see.

[hazelnutz77]

Oh yeah! He blew it out in week 16 and 17 against Cleveland and KC after the season was over and everyone had thrown in the towel. Check his games 1 thru 15. Yep and he still finished with a 3.5 avg. I can't wait.

i think u have to take a few more things into consideration. he wasn't really even in the fold until around week seven. if you throw out the two pittsburgh games (whom nobody ran the ball well against all year),baltimore,and philly(also tough on the run).he ends up with 150 totes for 601 yards, 4.0 ypc. not mind blowing stats but when u consider it was behind potentially the worst offensive line in the league with ryan fitzpatrick at the helm and absolutely no passing game whatsoever all of a sudden it looks pretty good to me.not to mention he appears pretty durable with fresh legs.37 carries in the kc game.....i think that teams including ours and myself are a little skeptical of ward since he was running behind one of the best lines in football and had brandon jacobs beating opponents up for much of the first half.not sure he is worth even close to what he is asking. all that being said i would much rather bring in benson for less jack and still pick one up in the draft and feel more comfortable in the backfield than i ever have.... $0.02

[TexansRage123]

if anything..i think we should get derrick ward...benson isnt good anymore...he didnt do that good with the bengals...he shouldnt have messed up his life with the bears..he fit there offense good..but oh well...now matt forte is shining there...id rather us get a RB in the 2nd or 3rd Rd...depending on how many safeties still there in 2nd round

[TexansNutt]

I really hope Smith is doing this for leverage. If we didn't bring in someone B4Ward it looks like we have no other options. But if we talk to other guys(especially guys we have no interest in anyways) Ward might be more inclined to sign with us.:cool:

[TexansNutt]

yeah I am not sold on this idea. Seems like a draft pick could get you the same thing for less money and less trouble.....

I like the kid from NC State!!! Andre Brow would fill all our needs a RB. He's big, fast, can catch and hes be perfect for the 1 cut system we use.

[Dr. Z]

its is kinda funny that we're looking at a free agent RB when our system is known for producing good running backs... especially when he has a history.

[Texian]

Let me explain Cedric Benson running in the ZBS. A RB cuts to where the hole is suppose to open. The hole will open and close by the time Cedric gets there. His number should be 35 for his career average of 3.5.

[Texian]

i think u have to take a few more things into consideration. he wasn't really even in the fold until around week seven. if you throw out the two pittsburgh games (whom nobody ran the ball well against all year),baltimore,and philly(also tough on the run).he ends up with 150 totes for 601 yards, 4.0 ypc. not mind blowing stats but when u consider it was behind potentially the worst offensive line in the league with ryan fitzpatrick at the helm and absolutely no passing game whatsoever all of a sudden it looks pretty good to me.not to mention he appears pretty durable with fresh legs.37 carries in the kc game.....i think that teams including ours and myself are a little skeptical of ward since he was running behind one of the best lines in football and had brandon jacobs beating opponents up for much of the first half.not sure he is worth even close to what he is asking. all that being said i would much rather bring in benson for less jack and still pick one up in the draft and feel more comfortable in the backfield than i ever have.... $0.02

Please be sure and contact the NFL and let them know to back out any stats for any RB who played against Pittsburgh, Baltimore and Philly. Do you want to be a nice guy and include the Giants also?

[Jesusfreak]

I like how we always kept players with class and good character. C.B. does not fit anywhere in there. Unless he had a revelation I wouldn't want him. I can't believe they are even bringing him in!

[ANDRE=FRANCHISE]

I've already told u all the ANSWER

LAMONT JORDAN


less $ / less Drama / more hitting power / better quickness = more touchdowns


And NOBODY give me the OLD RB speech. Watch him run last year. When he got his chances he produced. On FILM he looked like he was when he was back with the JETS.

[wildroot]

Jordan was hurt each of the 3 years he was with the Raiders (serious knee injury) has missed games with the Pats due to leg injuries and calf injuries. We just went through this with AG. Do we really want to go there again?!?

[powerhouse713]

I've already told u all the ANSWER

LAMONT JORDAN


less $ / less Drama / more hitting power / better quickness = more touchdowns


And NOBODY give me the OLD RB speech. Watch him run last year. When he got his chances he produced. On FILM he looked like he was when he was back with the JETS.

I am not denying the fact he is good player but the guy is been injured more than not the past couple years. I will have to pass.

[needmorelinemen]

Bears fan here. Nothing would make me laugh more than if you guys get suckered into signing Benson.

For those of you saying he has no wear and tear on his body: He has suffered three leg injuries in which one of them they inserted a metal plate into his foot and a dinged up shoulder in the beginning of training camp in 2006 from a rather tame hit from Mike Brown. I'm pretty sure a plate in one's foot does not make them faster.

For those of you who think his attitude has changed, just wait till you get him close to home. Here's one of his quotes from that article saying he'd like to be a Texan

Ex-Longhorn Benson says he'd like to play for Texans


“I think I proved that I’m the player everybody thought I could be,” Benson said. “I think it showed that I can get the job done, being a full-time back and carry the load.”

“Chicago fans asked me what was the difference? I told them it was simple: They gave me the football.”


Really, Benson thinks he has proven he deserves more money because of two games? I hope you can keep him motivated to play.

For those of you who think he turned a corner because of two games late in the season. He proved he could run against the Cleveland Browns and Kansas City in week 16 and 17. Wow! Yeah, like those teams had anything to play for, and could stop anyone from scoring even if they were trying. That would be great but I don't think you are going to be playing those two teams for the 16 game season.

Point being, the guy won't learn to block in a traditional scheme but you would trust him in your zone blocking scheme. He will run into the backs of your linemen because he has no vision. Can't catch a screen pass.

Will not play hurt as he demonstrated in 2005 after tweaking his knee in Game 9 against SF, but being forced back on the field by the coaches in week 17 after being medically cleared to play for weeks. Sat himself down in the Superbowl after two carries: fumbling once and then banging his knee into our left tackle's ankle which Tait (our LT) later had to have surgery on.

God God, I could fill your message board with this kind of junk.

[hazelnutz77]

Let me explain Cedric Benson running in the ZBS. A RB cuts to where the hole is suppose to open. The hole will open and close by the time Cedric gets there. His number should be 35 for his career average of 3.5.

don't we already have our homerun hitter?... i thought we needed a change of pace short yardage back and i'm no mathemetician but last time i checked 3.5 yards picks up a first down on 3rd and 1 or 2 everytime

[Indy Texan]

If Cedric Benson could run with the ball like he did as a Longhorn then he would be a good pickup. He looked horrible with Da Bears. Maybe some home cooking could turn him around

[wildroot]

Lets draft a RB....

[needmorelinemen]

don't we already have our homerun hitter?... i thought we needed a change of pace short yardage back and i'm no mathemetician but last time i checked 3.5 yards picks up a first down on 3rd and 1 or 2 everytime

Benson falls down with the slightest touch of a feather when you need the yardage.

You are falling for the idea that Benson is this bruising plodder. He's not.

[Sportswriter79]

Rashad Jennings RB Liberty (Projected Round: 3rd-4th)
This years Matt Forte. Who is liberty? Undefeated D-1 AA team, who is undefeated because of Jennings. Does he have size? How does 6-2 232 sound?

Pros: Great size, very productive, and plays a major role in a dominant team. Winning mentality is always good to have. Good speed for his size (4.6 range).

Cons: Could sneak in the second round (haha...just harder for us to get), doesn't have breakaway speed and played for a small program.

Why Texans? Biggest upside out of any power back in this class. Is a Goal Line back, and doesn't hesisitate in short yardage situations. Has a winning mentality, and a mentality to get in the zone. This guy is my pick to be Slaton's complement, It would just be ideal to get him later in the draft without having to give up an arm and a leg to get him.



This year's Matt Forte? That's a tough comparison. At Tulane, at least Forte was effectively running against the likes of LSU and Alabama on occasion.

The quality of Liberty's competition is exceptionally poor by NFL standards. We are still paying for that "small school" mistake with the pick of Jacoby Jones, so I would be skeptical.

Just curious, why did he transfer from Pitt to Liberty?

[greedimidi]

Bears fan here. Nothing would make me laugh more than if you guys get suckered into signing Benson.

For those of you saying he has no wear and tear on his body: He has suffered three leg injuries in which one of them they inserted a metal plate into his foot and a dinged up shoulder in the beginning of training camp in 2006 from a rather tame hit from Mike Brown. I'm pretty sure a plate in one's foot does not make them faster.

For those of you who think his attitude has changed, just wait till you get him close to home. Here's one of his quotes from that article saying he'd like to be a Texan

Ex-Longhorn Benson says he'd like to play for Texans


“I think I proved that I’m the player everybody thought I could be,” Benson said. “I think it showed that I can get the job done, being a full-time back and carry the load.”

“Chicago fans asked me what was the difference? I told them it was simple: They gave me the football.”


Really, Benson thinks he has proven he deserves more money because of two games? I hope you can keep him motivated to play.

For those of you who think he turned a corner because of two games late in the season. He proved he could run against the Cleveland Browns and Kansas City in week 16 and 17. Wow! Yeah, like those teams had anything to play for, and could stop anyone from scoring even if they were trying. That would be great but I don't think you are going to be playing those two teams for the 16 game season.

Point being, the guy won't learn to block in a traditional scheme but you would trust him in your zone blocking scheme. He will run into the backs of your linemen because he has no vision. Can't catch a screen pass.

Will not play hurt as he demonstrated in 2005 after tweaking his knee in Game 9 against SF, but being forced back on the field by the coaches in week 17 after being medically cleared to play for weeks. Sat himself down in the Superbowl after two carries: fumbling once and then banging his knee into our left tackle's ankle which Tait (our LT) later had to have surgery on.

God God, I could fill your message board with this kind of junk

after reading this post, it may be in our best interest not to sign him. if for anything at all, for the fact that he wouldnt learn to block on pass plays. thats scary because the last thing we want is for benson to miss an assignment, schaub gets smashed, and then orlovsky comes in to fill in for him......now thats scary.

[hazelnutz77]

Benson falls down with the slightest touch of a feather when you need the yardage.

You are falling for the idea that Benson is this bruising plodder. He's not.

i understand you are dissappointed with how he turned out in chicago but i can give you a laundry list of players who's games and attitudes were rejuvenated with a change of scenery. i live in cincinnati and watched most of his games this year running behind one of the worst lines in football.and he was a model citizen as well,which is quite a statement when u play for the bengals. i'm totally aware that he's not the second coming of walter payton but i do think he can help this team which is all i care about frankly

[wildroot]

i understand you are dissappointed with how he turned out in chicago but i can give you a laundry list of players who's games and attitudes were rejuvenated with a change of scenery. i live in cincinnati and watched most of his games this year running behind one of the worst lines in football.and he was a model citizen as well,which is quite a statement when u play for the bengals. i'm totally aware that he's not the second coming of walter payton but i do think he can help this team which is all i care about frankly

It just depends on which Benson shows up. Do we feel lucky? Is it worth the risk?

[houstonsportsfan09]

It just depends on which Benson shows up. Do we feel lucky? Is it worth the risk?

If its something perhaps similar to the Chris Brown signing, or low risk, sure I'm all for it. Can't be worse than Brown.

[needmorelinemen]

i understand you are dissappointed with how he turned out in chicago but i can give you a laundry list of players who's games and attitudes were rejuvenated with a change of scenery. i live in cincinnati and watched most of his games this year running behind one of the worst lines in football.and he was a model citizen as well,which is quite a statement when u play for the bengals. i'm totally aware that he's not the second coming of walter payton but i do think he can help this team which is all i care about frankly

Can you give me a laundry list of running backs that were offered the starting role in one city and are looking to turn that down to be a backup for more money? The guy is a mercenary who wilts in the face of challenge. His one appearance in the Superbowl is proof to that. He was running on the sidelines, we needed him to run against a bad run defense team, and he chose to take himself out of that game.

[Schlauton]

It just depends on which Benson shows up. Do we feel lucky? Is it worth the risk?

Do you feel lucky punk? Well do you?

Anyways, after reading that one from the bears fan, I am 50/50 on C. Ben.

He looks like he changed, but he still might have problems, yet if we get him for cheap, we can only use him for shortyardage, except Smithiak doesn't like Specialists or unitaskers, so maybe.

I still say we get him, ONLY for cheap money, and a behaviors clause.

If he sucks, I will make a costume of him and crash into a lightpole, just in case.

HAHA.

[hazelnutz77]

Can you give me a laundry list of running backs that were offered the starting role in one city and are looking to turn that down to be a backup for more money? The guy is a mercenary who wilts in the face of challenge. His one appearance in the Superbowl is proof to that. He was running on the sidelines, we needed him to run against a bad run defense team, and he chose to take himself out of that game.

i can't think of one person who WANTS to play for the bengals....and would YOU rather A. work for substantially more money in your home state closer to your friends and family for an up and coming company or B. work for less money in some random state with no friends and family around for company thats been a sinking ship for the past twenty years with a bunch of disgruntled employees and management in dissarray

[needmorelinemen]

i can't think of one person who WANTS to play for the bengals....and would YOU rather A. work for substantially more money in your home state closer to your friends and family for an up and coming company or B. work for less money in some random state with no friends and family around for company thats been a sinking ship for the past twenty years with a bunch of disgruntled employees and management in dissarray

He has no friends because he's not a likable guy.

Here's the catch to that statement you made about working closer to home for less money. The ultimate goal for any NFL player is to be a starter. The Bengals are offering that. What you are suggesting is the difference to being a lawyer or a paralegal with a law degree.

He's supposed to be a professional. In the long run, Benson would be better off staying where he is, excelling as the starter in Cinncinnati, and moving off elsewhere for starter money to another city where he has no friends so he can get the huge payoff and prestige of playing in the NFL. That would take courage, heart, and some balls.

Benson instead is going to come running home to momma so he can feel secure around all his old buddies from college, just so he can take a small payraise and sit the bench, occasionally coming in to give Steve Slaton a breather. Steve Slaton, who is living away from his home in Pennsylvania and where he went to school in West Virginia, is currently tearing it up in Houston as the starter because he had the balls and courage to step up when Chris Brown and Green couldn't handle the load as a rookie.

That's the difference.

[Sportswriter79]

He has no friends because he's not a likable guy.

Here's the catch to that statement you made about working closer to home for less money. The ultimate goal for any NFL player is to be a starter. The Bengals are offering that. What you are suggesting is the difference to being a lawyer or a paralegal with a law degree.

He's supposed to be a professional. In the long run, Benson would be better off staying where he is, excelling as the starter in Cinncinnati, and moving off elsewhere for starter money to another city where he has no friends so he can get the huge payoff and prestige of playing in the NFL. That would take courage, heart, and some balls.

Benson instead is going to come running home to momma so he can feel secure around all his old buddies from college, just so he can take a small payraise and sit the bench, occasionally coming in to give Steve Slaton a breather. Steve Slaton, who is living away from his home in Pennsylvania and where he went to school in West Virginia, is currently tearing it up in Houston as the starter because he had the balls and courage to step up when Chris Brown and Green couldn't handle the load as a rookie.

That's the difference.

And spoken with such authority, too.

[D Frank]

"is currently tearing it up in Houston as the starter because he had the balls and courage to step up when Chris Brown and Green couldn't handle the load as a rookie."

that gives us a good perspective of how fearless and determined our
guy really is. I woulda been scared as shhh to be handed the keys after
the 1st game.

[wildroot]

If its something perhaps similar to the Chris Brown signing, or low risk, sure I'm all for it. Can't be worse than Brown.

I just have to believe we can do better than a back that "can't be worse than Brown"....know what I mean?

I hate to mess with the chemistry we have with a question mark. Maybe best we grab a RB in the draft instead.

[needmorelinemen]

http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/12/12/cedric-benson-thinks-hed-have-1800-yards-if-he-was-still-on-the/

I wish I could bring up the full article from the Chicago Sun Times. Here is the quality guy commenting about Forte's production:

''(Forte) is having a great year, but when I see the highlights, I see holes,'' Benson told reporters in Cincinnati. ''I see them using him in the slot, something they didn't do with me. If I was there right now with the holes I see, I'd probably have 1,800 yards right now. I definitely would have 1,500 by now. I congratulate him on all of his success. He is taking advantage.''

[zanth91]

Now that Ward is off the block, I'm interested in signing Benson.

[Texans Rising]

Now that Ward is off the block, I'm interested in signing Benson.

yeah, and his price probably just went up...

[TexansRage123]

i think we should fill our OL needs more then a HB....there are plenty good ones in the draft that are overlooked like slaton was...

[JAXwithanX]

Bears fan here. Nothing would make me laugh more than if you guys get suckered into signing Benson.

For those of you saying he has no wear and tear on his body: He has suffered three leg injuries in which one of them they inserted a metal plate into his foot and a dinged up shoulder in the beginning of training camp in 2006 from a rather tame hit from Mike Brown. I'm pretty sure a plate in one's foot does not make them faster.

For those of you who think his attitude has changed, just wait till you get him close to home. Here's one of his quotes from that article saying he'd like to be a Texan

Ex-Longhorn Benson says he'd like to play for Texans


“I think I proved that I’m the player everybody thought I could be,” Benson said. “I think it showed that I can get the job done, being a full-time back and carry the load.”

“Chicago fans asked me what was the difference? I told them it was simple: They gave me the football.”


Really, Benson thinks he has proven he deserves more money because of two games? I hope you can keep him motivated to play.

For those of you who think he turned a corner because of two games late in the season. He proved he could run against the Cleveland Browns and Kansas City in week 16 and 17. Wow! Yeah, like those teams had anything to play for, and could stop anyone from scoring even if they were trying. That would be great but I don't think you are going to be playing those two teams for the 16 game season.

Point being, the guy won't learn to block in a traditional scheme but you would trust him in your zone blocking scheme. He will run into the backs of your linemen because he has no vision. Can't catch a screen pass.

Will not play hurt as he demonstrated in 2005 after tweaking his knee in Game 9 against SF, but being forced back on the field by the coaches in week 17 after being medically cleared to play for weeks. Sat himself down in the Superbowl after two carries: fumbling once and then banging his knee into our left tackle's ankle which Tait (our LT) later had to have surgery on.

God God, I could fill your message board with this kind of junk.

This is a generalization and definitely not something that should be considered a 'rule'. But I find anyone that is willing to take time out of their day to sign up for a message board of a team they don't even care about, just to tell the team they don't care about about how bad a player they don't like is....well their opinion is ****. Sorry, but you signed up a year ago to try and let us know how bad Benson sucked and you've came back this year...once again only to tell us how bad Benson sucks. While he may suck and you may be right....anyone who is going to have their mind all of a sudden changed on Benson because of your posts is....being foolish. It doesn't bother me you don't like him, I hate David Carr. But I don't make it a point to follow him around the league to tell other teams how dumb they are for considering him.

It is called blatant bias guys and it is best to not let it deter your own opinion.

Anyways, I personally a for the signing. Any position we can fill in FA is one less position we have to immediately focus on in the draft, thus more picks being used towards BPA instead of filling needs which is always a good thing. I'm not saying we should completely disregard the idea of looking for a good value at RB in the draft, but it does help take off the immediate pressure to find one in the draft. Less needs = Less chance of a reach = Better odds at getting valuable players.

[SuperstarII]

Bears fan here. Nothing would make me laugh more than if you guys get suckered into signing Benson.

For those of you saying he has no wear and tear on his body: He has suffered three leg injuries in which one of them they inserted a metal plate into his foot and a dinged up shoulder in the beginning of training camp in 2006 from a rather tame hit from Mike Brown. I'm pretty sure a plate in one's foot does not make them faster.

For those of you who think his attitude has changed, just wait till you get him close to home. Here's one of his quotes from that article saying he'd like to be a Texan

Ex-Longhorn Benson says he'd like to play for Texans


“I think I proved that I’m the player everybody thought I could be,” Benson said. “I think it showed that I can get the job done, being a full-time back and carry the load.”

“Chicago fans asked me what was the difference? I told them it was simple: They gave me the football.”


Really, Benson thinks he has proven he deserves more money because of two games? I hope you can keep him motivated to play.

For those of you who think he turned a corner because of two games late in the season. He proved he could run against the Cleveland Browns and Kansas City in week 16 and 17. Wow! Yeah, like those teams had anything to play for, and could stop anyone from scoring even if they were trying. That would be great but I don't think you are going to be playing those two teams for the 16 game season.

Point being, the guy won't learn to block in a traditional scheme but you would trust him in your zone blocking scheme. He will run into the backs of your linemen because he has no vision. Can't catch a screen pass.

Will not play hurt as he demonstrated in 2005 after tweaking his knee in Game 9 against SF, but being forced back on the field by the coaches in week 17 after being medically cleared to play for weeks. Sat himself down in the Superbowl after two carries: fumbling once and then banging his knee into our left tackle's ankle which Tait (our LT) later had to have surgery on.

God God, I could fill your message board with this kind of junk.


oh great so basically another Ahman Green?

[TexansRage123]

i dont even see why texans are considering benson..he has injury issues...plus he causes alot of drama...id rather wait til draft to get a RB..if we get one from Free Agency...Def shouldnt be benson

[Macaronitoni]

i dont even see why texans are considering benson..he has injury issues..

You just answered your own question :-P

[GoldenHolden]

yeah, and his price probably just went up...

Actually I think the opposite just happened. The top free agent RB and a guy that is going to be starting just got $4m a year. That means Benson, who will be looking at back up duty, will get considerably less. Benson isn't in a great bargaining position because the draft is still to come and many teams will just look to draft a rb rather than over pay for a veteran.

[TexansRage123]

You just answered your own question :-P


how did i answer my own question....they want benson..and i said...why would they if he has had injury problems

[Macaronitoni]

how did i answer my own question....they want benson..and i said...why would they if he has had injury problems

It was a joke, cuz we seem to go after injury prone RB's...Brown, Green...

[TexansRage123]

ah alright...i see..prob cause they are cheaper eh

[SuperstarII]

It was a joke, cuz we seem to go after injury prone RB's...Brown, Green...


yet we let go of darius walker.....I sometimes wonder about Rick Smith.

[BroncosTexans77]

It could be Alex Gibbs pulling the strings on what RB to nab. I mean he sure did pick a winner with Slaton, now he is trying to find his Mike Anderson/Ron Dayne back now. I'd be ecstatic with Cedric he showed late last yer his head was on straight and he had determination.

[needmorelinemen]

This is a generalization and definitely not something that should be considered a 'rule'. But I find anyone that is willing to take time out of their day to sign up for a message board of a team they don't even care about, just to tell the team they don't care about about how bad a player they don't like is....well their opinion is ****. Sorry, but you signed up a year ago to try and let us know how bad Benson sucked and you've came back this year...once again only to tell us how bad Benson sucks. While he may suck and you may be right....anyone who is going to have their mind all of a sudden changed on Benson because of your posts is....being foolish. It doesn't bother me you don't like him, I hate David Carr. But I don't make it a point to follow him around the league to tell other teams how dumb they are for considering him.

It is called blatant bias guys and it is best to not let it deter your own opinion.

Anyways, I personally a for the signing. Any position we can fill in FA is one less position we have to immediately focus on in the draft, thus more picks being used towards BPA instead of filling needs which is always a good thing. I'm not saying we should completely disregard the idea of looking for a good value at RB in the draft, but it does help take off the immediate pressure to find one in the draft. Less needs = Less chance of a reach = Better odds at getting valuable players.

Actually, I like the Texans too. My first team is of course the Bears, but you guys have some good talent right now and are recovering nicely from Casserly. My best friend is from Houston, and we talk about our prospective teams quite a bit. I like drafting players from Houston on my ff teams because it gives me one more avenue to follow the team but I don't ever get games in my area so I don't get to see A Johnson play very much. I have managed to even attend a game in your stadium. Got to meet one of our OG's, Roberto Garza, extended family.

I do not want to see your team get jacked up with a loaf like Benson. Call me biased. That does not change any truth others might see in what I am saying. David Carr got the crap kicked out of him by really bad o-line play. He didn't have the longest hold out in your team's history, wreck team chemistry, and give up on your team during the Superbowl.

You want him? Good luck. If you get him, maybe what I said here will stick with you as he sucks on your team. People can change, but just look at what he is choosing to do in regards to where he signs. For a little bit more money he is going to give up the chance to start in the NFL. You want that? What if Slaton gets hurt? Now you have to rely on a guy that struggles carrying the full load in the pros. He did for us in 2007, and he did in Cinncinnati except for a few abberation games against bad teams.

He had three good rushing games last year: Jax, KC, and Cleveland. All teams whose defenses struggled. Against real teams he was horrible.

[bigtex77]

It could be Alex Gibbs pulling the strings on what RB to nab. I mean he sure did pick a winner with Slaton, now he is trying to find his Mike Anderson/Ron Dayne back now. I'd be ecstatic with Cedric he showed late last yer his head was on straight and he had determination.

Hate to be negative, but how long will his head stay on straight? If it's permanent, great, but even Pac-Man, and the Bengals as a team can act right for a month or so.

[BroncosTexans77]

Hate to be negative, but how long will his head stay on straight? If it's permanent, great, but even Pac-Man, and the Bengals as a team can act right for a month or so.

If he can keep yhis head on straight for nearly a season in the dysfunctional haven for criminals called Cincinnati Bengals, then I would believe he could do it here with great support from leaders such as AJ and DeMeco. :cool:

[bigtex77]

If he can keep yhis head on straight for nearly a season in the dysfunctional haven for criminals called Cincinnati Bengals, then I would believe he could do it here with great support from leaders such as AJ and DeMeco. :cool:

Very true, I guess we've officially changed the "dysfunctional haven for criminals" from the Cowboys to the Bengals? LOL

[Texan Naija]

yet we let go of darius walker.....I sometimes wonder about Rick Smith.

Smith resigned Walker before Gibbs showed up. From what I have seen it is probably Gibbs that is forcing Walker out. We all know Walker isn't the fastest small RB, but usually he is able to recognize the field enough to find open seems as they appear. He isn't a extremely good fit for the ZBS system, which is probably why Gibbs and Kubiak were trying to sell EVERY other RB but Walker and kept him directly on the bench for most of preseason.

[blake1776]

I think Benson would be a good fit, he gave Troy Polamalu a concussion. He runs hard, and I think he will run hard with all the UT fans here. I would be very happy to have him.

[dbruder44]

The Cincinnati Enquirer is hearing that the Bengals have increased their contract offer to free agent Cedric Benson.

Benson played his cards right in Houston, calling the odds of him signing there "good." Still, the Bengals shouldn't be willing to give Benson more than Derrick Ward. Benson is younger, but doesn't offer nearly as much versatility.
Source: Cincinnati Enquirer

Smith/Kubiak better bet their ducks in a row if they don't want to lose him to the Bengals.

[wildroot]

I'm on the fence with this one.

[Se7en]

I think Benson would be a good fit, he gave Troy Polamalu a concussion. He runs hard, and I think he will run hard with all the UT fans here. I would be very happy to have him.

I am thinking the same thing. He would not be in front of his "home town" Austin crowd... but he would certainly be playing for a lot of UT students at his games here and in the same state as his faimly.

I hope he would not be a slacker here. :)

[BroncosTexans77]

think he was just using Texans as leverage. Seems Bengals may have upped their offer.

I'd definitely like to see Benson in Battle Red.

[outofhnd]

think he was just using Texans as leverage. Seems Bengals may have upped their offer.

I'd definitely like to see Benson in Battle Red.

Exactly. Im cool with that wasn't really my choice of backs anyways id rather get a runner in the draft less mileage less drama and most importantly less money and more motivation

[Matt_in_KW]

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/front/6288717.html

He could come cheaper than Ward, and I think would be a nice complement to Slaton...

If the issues are behind him...offer a min, with bonus money. If not, stay away no need for a problem on the roster.

[TheLBCoach]

I coached against Benson's high school coach last season, John Parchman. He's now the HC at Cisco JC. We had to drive up to Cisco, TX (which is in the middle of nowhere, btw). I met him for the first time and talked to him for a while before kickoff...really nice guy.

We won 66-14.

[lewboy]

just read on the bengals site that benson resigned with them. i think it would have been a good pickup but there should be alternatives in the draft.

[therealx9]

Texans bring in your mom for a workout.

[therealx9]

good. he was a scrub anyway.

[TexansRage123]

yeah wouldve been lame to have him anyways..we prob get one in 3rd round now...

[GoldenHolden]

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/headline/sports/6291686.html

Not too suprising. He could start there and he would be a backup here, no brainer for him. I like that the Texans talked to him but I wouldn't want to spend $3.5m on a backup rb with baggage.

[tx_tuff]

I think it would have been nice, but he prob wanted to be a starter. And why not he is still very young and getting better ever year.

[TexansRage123]

yeah someone already announced this in the bull pen....but good looks with the link...i also saw the news on bengals.com ....

[wildroot]

Well, we can shut this thread down....

[TexansRage123]

yeah benson is offically a p*ssy cat

[Wolfscar]

Phew. Let's focus on drafting someone now. There are a few good options to be had in the middle rounds.

Rashad Jennings, Ian Johnson, Andre Brown, PJ Hill as late as the 5th, Keegan Herring ...

[TexansRage123]

alright this now the 3rd time...we have seen this....we know...its on nfl.com...bengals.com....the texans nation...knows...ty...lets move on

[Ferretman]

Andre brown time!!!

[Bigtime4Paul]

Bengals re-signed Benson 7mil

[TexansRage123]

yeah we know....lol...i think we all read nfl.com...

[doveslayer665]

Just saw it on houstontexans.com. 2 yrs. for $7 million.
http://www.houstontexans.com/news/blogs.asp?blogger_id=16
Your thoughts?

[zanth91]

Yeah...we know.

Please check the NFL section.

[mydaughters2]

Yep Cincy keeps Benson, so much for the Texans dinning him, 09 Draft here we come for a goaline power back unless they try to get Deuce, he is still floating around, but I am sure he would be another A. Green....:D

[doveslayer665]

derrick ward just signed with the bucs