NFL Rumors: Cedric Benson signing with Packers?
After a long offseason of waiting for the phone to ring, it appears that veteran running back Cedric Benson is finally getting the opportunity that he’s been waiting for.
According to Chris Mortensen of ESPN, Benson is in Wisconsin visiting with the Green Bay Packers and is expected to sign with the team.
This move comes a day after the Packers’ 21-13 preseason loss to the San Diego Chargers, during which none of the Green Bay’s current running backs managed to stand out. The same, however, can be said for all of their offseason performances.
James Starks, the expected starter, is heading into his third NFL season and appeared to be headed for a big 2012 campaign. And then, Starks struggled throughout offseason workouts and looked unimpressive during training camp. Against the Chargers on Thursday, Starks picked up 16 yards on five carries and fumbled once. The most explosive and experienced of the Packers’ backs, Starks is inconsistent and has struggled with injuries in the past.
The Packers’ No. 2 runner, Alex Green, is coming off of an ACL injury. Although expected to have a breakout season in 2012, the rehab could slow his development. Green picked up only three yards on three carries on Thursday and made no impact for the Packers.
The only other running back who saw the field against the Chargers was undrafted rookie Marc Tyler. A sluggish, hard-nosed runner, Tyler is on the roster bubble but did a decent job on Thursday. He racked up 32 yards on 13 carries and scored one of the Packers’ only two touchdowns on the game, but fumbled away their last possession.
If Benson joined the Packers’ backfield, he’d provide the offense with a reliable, durable runner who can pick up consistent yards. Especially with a passing attack that demands defenses’ attention, the Packers just need a running back who can take advantage of running lanes and pick up the tough yards. Benson fits the bill well.
This move makes it clear that the Packers are worried about Starks’ potential as a starter. Benson will more than likely replace him as the No. 1 until Starks proves he’s ready to carry the load.
For those of you who decided against taking Starks during your fantasy football drafts, I applaud you.
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