While nosin around NFL.com I discovered this tidbit tucked away in the fantasy area.   Fantasy players, be bullish on Palmer, Ochocinco

QB Carson Palmer told reporters that this current Bengals team is as good as any he’s had during his seven years in Cincinnati.

This time of year is full of hyperbole, but fantasy owners should take notice.

“The mindset of the team, the amount of distractions is down and the focus is where it needs to be,” Palmer said. “As far as talent wise, this is probably the best talent we’ve had but the most maturity we’ve had by far. We’re where we need to be, we’re headed in the right direction.”

What Palmer is basically saying is that he’s happy WR Chad Ochocinco finally got his butt into camp, isn’t complaining about being traded and is instead concentrating on being the best receiver in the league. Not happy enough that Palmer will invite Ochocinco to move in with him, but still happy.

And here’s the secret, if you have followed along with our NFL.com chats: Ochocinco’s name is most mentioned when the discussion turns to best receiver in the league. Cortland Finnegan (chat) and Darrelle Revis (chat) were two guys who said Ochocinco was the best receiver in the league. I’ll take their word for it.

Palmer is ranked No. 11 in Michael Fabiano’s fantasy rankings, though that seems a little low. Really, Jay Cutler ahead of him? Cutler’s top receiver is “Stonehands” from Neccessary Roughness. Palmer has Ochocinco. Palmer also went in Round 8 of our “experts” draft. I grabbed Tony Romo in Round 6, but would probably feel better about getting Palmer in Round 8. Ochocinco went in Round 4 of that draft, just prior to my pick, and I’m still seething.

Update your boards and keep an eye on Palmer and Ochocinco — it’s going to be a big year in Cincinnati.

– ADAM RANK