The Cincinnati Bengals welcomed guard Bobbie Williams back to the team on Monday after the veteran served a four-game suspension for violating the league's performance enhancing substance policy. The league granted the team a one-week exemption to participate in team activities. Before the team could activate him onto the 53-man roster, they'd have to make a move to free up a spot for him.
They have.
The Cincinnati Bengals have announced that they released guard Otis Hudson and activated Bobbie Williams onto the 53-man roster Thursday. It's the clearest indication that Williams will start on Sunday against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
As for Hudson, a lineman you could call a "project" and eventual Bobbie Williams heir, once he clears waivers, he'll be eligible to return to the team's practice squad.
Offensive line coach Paul Alexander is excited about Williams' return, who appears to have lost nearly 12 pounds during his suspension.
“How many years has Bobbie been here? Nine?” Alexander asked. “I would think he would have a little bit of recall. He looks real quick. His weight’s down. He’s not ready to be a fitness model just yet, but he looks good.”