The Cincinnati Bengals decided to revisit their running back situation, allowing Cedric Benson to leave for free agency while creating a running back committee between Bernard Scott and one of the team's high-profile free agent signings. On March 21, 2012, Cincinnati signed former New England Patriots running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis to a three-year deal worth $9 million.

Along with having never fumbled the football during 510 career carries, Green-Ellis brings a red zone threat that the Cincinnati Bengals haven't seen in some time. During his final two seasons with the Patriots, Green-Ellis scored 24 touchdowns, a majority scored inside the red zone, for a team noted for employing a spread offense and relying heavily on Tom Brady's arm.

Though the Bengals are expected to have a committee approach at running back, Green-Ellis may see more attempts due to his red zone history and likely advantage over Bernard Scott as a power back (relatively speaking) during short-yardage situations.