Frantic Bengals Continue to Make Moves

By Adam Kiefaber

One day after the Bengals shocked their fans by releasing LB Ed Hartwell and relieved others by cutting Doug Johnson, the team continued their frantic finalization of the 53-man roster.

Previously, I was certain that Cincinnati put running back Chris Perry on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list because Quincy Wilson was so impressive on Friday night.

I was wrong. The Bengals released Wilson and claimed rookie RB Cliff Dawson (right). I know little about this kid, but I do know that he went to Harvard. So that is an upgrade over Wilson, who went to West Virginia.

Nothing against WVU, but Chris Henry, Jerry Porter, Wilson and Pacman Jones all attended WVU and all have recently been in trouble with the law. It is impressive that Dawson was born in Scarborough, Ontario and went to Harvard (with that kind of commitment, it doesn’t seem like we will see him get in trouble).

Dawson, who played for the Colts this preseason, didn’t play in Friday’s game. Overall, Dawson rushed for 48 yards on 12 carries this preseason. The most surprising part about this move is that Dawson played for Indianapolis, who also cut RB DeDe Dorsey. Dorsey was supposed to be Joseph Addai’s main backup this season. Last year, Dorsey was a great preseason player for the Bengals.

Cincinnati also claimed cornerback David Jones and linebacker Anthony Schlegel (left).

Jones must have impressed Bengal coaches when the two teams practiced together prior to their preseason game in August. Jones went to Wingate University, there he intercepted 15 passes, scored three touchdowns and deflected 28 passes. New Orleans drafted Jones in fifth round of the 2007 NFL Draft.

Most Bengal fans remember Schlegel from his Ohio State days. Schlegel began his college career at Air Force, then played two years for the Buckeyes where he recorded 166 tackles (17.5 for loss) and 5.5 sacks. Last year, he was drafted in the third round by the New York Jets. The 6-foot 251-pound linebacker has played well this preseason.

Besides Wilson, the Bengals waived cornerback Blue Adams and offensive lineman Dan Santucci. I expect Santucci to join the Bengals practice squad. On Sunday the Bengals added Safety John Busing, offensive lineman Dane Uperesa, wide receiver Bennie Brazell, fullback Chris Manderino, defensive tackle Matt Toeaina, tight end Tim Day, and guard Nate Livings to the practice squad. There is one more spot left.