Roster Battles - RB BENGALS 2012

I am going to take a stab at a few of the intriguing position battles. I can not wait to watch unfold and I think this will be a very entertaining preseason. The Bengals have a roster stacked with competition top to bottom. This can only result in a positive for the fans and the future of the franchise. The final 53 man roster will be loaded with Vets and future stars who are poised to emerge onto the national scene. I am only picking a few spots on the roster to discuss but wish I had time to do them all. 

First I will take on the running back position. NFL teams usually keep 3 active running backs come week 1. The Bengals could keep 4 although this is very unlikely. Here is where the speculation and drama begins. Can the combo of Ben Jarvis Green Ellis and Bernard Scott coexist? Will they show the ability to replace the production of former bell cow Cedric Benson? Will the running back by committee system Gruden plans to role with succeed? I will take a crack at how I think the main position battles will shake down once the pads start popping when the JETS come to town Friday night.

RB Locks: BJGE and Bernard Scott are the only locks. Scot has a short leash and this is his last shot to break out. I could see a few of the young guys will put more pressure on Scott than expected. 

The Favorite: In my opinion Brian Leonard is the favorite to earn the last roster spot at running back. He has become a great third down back and when called upon the Rutgers product seems to succeed way more than he fails. I find it hard to believe the steady vet will loose his roster spot if he can remain healthy. If anything his skill set may put some pressure on Bernard Scott who like I mentioned I think we are all still waiting to see break out. 

 

Heart Breaker: Cedric Peerman has emerged as a fan favorite on special teams. This is what will help Peerman during this roster battle. If Herron and Aaron Brown struggle in this aspect of the game they are going to remain the long shots. I do not see Peerman making the roster and this may make some fans angry but there are players ready to pick up the special teams slack.

Long Shots: Dan “BOOM”Herron and Aaron Brown are both long shots in my opinion. I know way more about Boom Herron than I do about Brown. From what I have seen in the camp videos Brown looks like more of an explosive pass catching type of threat. Boom has a chance if he can remain fearless at this level and be the down hill runner Ohio State fans loved. He also has above average hands for a back. Both could surprise but they seem to be destined for the practice squad.

I would love to hear what my fellow football fans think! Who Dey and bring on the JETS!