Cincinnati Bengals

*Chad Johnson suffered a bruised shoulder against the Patriots but was able to continue.  The Bengals are on the bye this week.

*M*A*S*H Ward.  TJ Houshmandzadeh has been able to practice and barring any setbacks, will start on Sunday.  Chris Henry was carted off the field during practice, but Marvin Lewis insists that he is okay.  Chad Johnson is not feeling ill effects of the shot he took from the Browns' Brian Russell on Sunday.  He did get 6 stitches in his chin.

*Lost starting center Rich Braham.  You know how we feel about injuries to starting centers - it usually impacts the entire offense.  Also, Chad Johnson was suffering ill effects from a blow to the head that sent his helmet flying late in the game.  We'll update his status as we know more.

*Chris Henry will most likely start for the Bengals again since TJ Houshmandzadeh has been unable to practice.

*Chris Henry avoided jail time, but has been sentenced to 2 years probation.

*Marvin Lewis said that things are looking better for TJ Houshmandzadeh.  If he is able to practice this week, he will play Sunday.  The problem with his heel is not effecting his running, but it's preventing him from stopping or cutting effectively.

*Carson Palmer has reported no ill effects from playing against Green Bay.  He will get some reps in against Indianapolis and should be ready to start week 1.  Move him up your draft charts if you haven't already.

*There should be no more questions about Carson Palmer's knee.  He moved around in the pocket, took a big hit while getting rid of the ball and led his offense to 31 points in the first half against Green Bay; although 7 points were on a defensive score.  TJ Houshmandzadeh was the primary target, benefiting from the coverage Chad Johnson was facing.  Houshmandzadeh left the game with a bruised heel, but he should be alright

*Carson Palmer is set to play Monday night against the Packers.  I'm not as concerned about his performance as I am how he feels the next day.  If the swelling stays down, he'll be ready to go week 1.

*More caution from Palmer who is now saying that he is not where he wants to be.  he is not expected to make an appearance until possibly the 3rd preseason game.  There is still no guarantee that he'll be ready to go at the start of the season.

*TJ Houshmandzadeh bruised his elbow on Friday and was unable to continue practice.

*The Bengals are trying to slow down the optimism being shown around Carson Palmer.  Word is that he most likely will not start week 1, and when he comes back is still somewhat in question.  Week 3 or 4 seems more reasonable.  Anthony Wright is #2, but considering his performance in Baltimore last year, I would not call him a great handcuff.

*Hearing great things about Rudi Johnson this summer.  He is said to look quicker and stronger.  No matter how much the Bengals wanted Chris Perry to eventually take this job, Johnson is not giving them a choice but to stick with him.

*Carson Palmer is running the offense in Cincinnati, but he remains cautious. When asked if he'll be ready for week 1, Palmer has been taking a 'wait and see' approach.  The value of the rest of the Bengals rests on Palmers ability to heal.  I trust that he will be back and have another great year.

*Rudi Johnson revealed that he played most of last season with torn cartilage in his left knee (injured in week 2).  He's healthy now.  Not bad production from a guy that badly hurt.  Imagine what he could have done if healthy.  On the other hand, Chris Perry is injured again.

*In case your wondering, Chris Henry can not be released because he is still receiving medical treatment on his knee.  He could file a grievance if he were to be released.

*Chad Johnson strained a groin muscle on a crossing route on June 15.  Marvin Lewis says it's not serious.  He was able to work out at full speed on Friday.

*With Chris Henry's problems continuing to mount against him, Antonio Chatman could be moving into the #3 role. 

*Word is that Carson Palmer will be able to participate in preseason action.  Great news for Palmer owners and fantasy leagues in general.

http://www.bengals.com/ - Official Site

http://www.cincinnati.com/bengals/

http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/section?Category=SPT02

http://www.cincypost.com/bengals/ - news sites

http://www.bengals.com/team/players.asp - roster

http://www.ourlads.com/secure/depthchart.cfm?index1=CIN - depth chart

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/bengals/stats.htm - stats

http://www.nfl.com/freeagency/afc-signings - free agency