2009 Bengals Depth Chart- Running Backs

Running Backs
1.Cedric Benson
2.Brian Leonard
3.Kenny Watson
4.Bernard Scott
5.DeDe Dorsey

Key Additions: Brian Leonard, Bernard Scott
Key Losses: Chris Perry

The Bengals were finally able to see what a healthy Chris Perry could do last season as a starter at the Running Back position. Unfortunately what they saw was not an NFL caliber tailback. The Bengals released Perry this off season and in turn signed Brian Leonard for the St. Louis Rams. Leonard was used in St. Louis as a hybrid FB/HB and in two seasons with St. Louis put up very meager numbers. The Bengals will more than likely use Leonard in third down situations and short yardage. Cincinnati has given the load to last season free agent signee Cedric Benson. As the season progressed last year Benson picked up considerably. The last two games of the season Benson rushed for 171 and 111 yards with a TD. As Benson's production improved so did the Bengals, who won the last three games of the year. Cedric Benson will more than likely get the goal line carries for the Bengals with Leaonard used occasionally when they need a bruiser. I would doubt the Bengals will carry 5 RB throughout the season so look for a position battle this preseason between Watson, Scott, and Dorsey. Scott, who was drafted in the 6th round out of Abiline Christian College, comes with some off the field baggage. I would venture to say that Watson's spot as the #3 is safe. At this point until we see them on the field we will not know how the last spots will shake out. Scott worked a lot with the Special Teams while in town for the Rookie Mini-Camp which will help him hold onto a roster spot if he can produce for them.