Bengals Have Reached Out To Running Back Brian Leonard

by Josh Kirkendall on Jul 27, 2011 11:32 AM EDT

According to Joe Reedy of the Cincinnati Enquirer, the Bengals have reached out to running back Brian Leonard, who is entering this free agency period as an unrestricted free agent. Leonard, traded to the Bengals for defensive tackle Orien Harris after the 2008 season, has spent the past two seasons with the Bengals, posting 145 yards rushing on 36 carries with 50 receptions for 354 yards receiving. He's scored one touchdown with the Bengals; a receiving touchdown against the Cleveland Browns on October 3, 2010.

Of his 29 total touches in 2010, 16 have come on third and fourth down.

Breakdown of Brian Leonard based on downs
DOWN	Rushes	Yards	Rec.	Yards	TTD
First	2	6	8	45	1
Second	1	2	2	17	0
Third	3	1	9	63	0
Fourth	3	52	1	12	0
Total	9	61	20	137	1

Where Leonard really shines as a pass blocker, posting the best pass blocking scores amongst all Bengals running backs. With a Jay Gruden system that encourages running back participation in the passing game (think wheel routes), it only makes sense that the Bengals would want Leonard back.

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Good to hear

I wanted Leonard back more than I wanted Benson.

That said, I am starting to get a little bit concerned. I see a lot of other teams starting to get deals done with their own guys, like the Jets with Holmes. But while the Bengals seem to be doing a lot of calling, reaching out, expressing interest, focusing on, etc., not much beyond a pile of UDFA deals appears to be getting done.

Not panicking by any means, but would like to see at least one Bengals vet signing today. Is that too much to ask?

by BeerRun on Jul 27, 2011 11:37 AM EDT reply actions

I think we'll see at least two vet signings, today.

We have a lot of possibilities to choose from, both in terms of our own guys and FAs.

by Big Sky Bengal on Jul 27, 2011 11:45 AM EDT up reply actions

I agree with you BeerRun.

You would think we would be more aggressive with the NEED to spend the minimum salary cap. I hope you’re right with the hope of signing a vet or two today.

by ddbumpus on Jul 27, 2011 11:59 AM EDT up reply actions

I like Leonard

and think his skill set can be better utilized in the new offense to some degree.

by Cedric Benson Boat Party on Jul 27, 2011 11:56 AM EDT reply actions

Of his 29 total touches in 2010, 16 have come on third and fourth down

Somebody will have to explain the significance of this stat to me.

He get’s half of his touches (16 of 29) in half of the downs (3 & 4 out of 1, 2, 3, 4).

I’m failing to see the significance of this.

by ephram on Jul 27, 2011 11:59 AM EDT reply actions

He's a go to guy.

In situations that are dire need of having a play made, which he has delivered.

by ddbumpus on Jul 27, 2011 12:00 PM EDT up reply actions

not a lot of 4th down plays for the average player though. It's not a 7-7-7-7 split. For Leonard it's like 7-6-12-4... or something like that.

"You gotta look good. Look good, you play good. Play good, pay good. Pay good, live good. Live good, y'know, eat good. Die good." - Deion Sanders

by BeWarned on Jul 27, 2011 1:52 PM EDT up reply actions

he's number 5 on my off season needs list

hate to see cincy lose him. hope he comes back, but 1-4 are more important.

1) jo-jo
2) a starting rb (doesnt have to be benson)
3) starting guard (evan mathis isnt coming back)
4) safety. starter or quality depth.
5) leonard.

" I for one, welcome our new Buffalo overlords. " - Whokebe

by palewook on Jul 27, 2011 12:12 PM EDT reply actions