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We know that the Bengals aren't likely to become heavy buyers in free agency, especially at running back with players like Reggie Bush or Ahmad Bradshaw who has chronic foot problems (reason for his release officially being a failed physical). However one running back that Bengals fans have often kept their eye on could have significant production left in his legs is Chris Ivory writes Khaled Elsayed via ESPN In$ider.
With Pierre Thomas, Darren Sproles, Mark Ingram and Travaris Cadet on the roster, Ivory was limited to 68 snaps this year, down from the 156 he managed in 2011 and 195 as a rookie. He's clearly not a big part of what the Saints do, yet that doesn't mean he couldn't (or wouldn't) contribute in a big way for someone else.
For his career, Ivory is averaging an astonishing 5.1 yards per carry (compared to the 3.9 of Ingram) despite the fact that when he's in the game it's a telltale sign the Saints are running (74.9 percent of his snaps were on running plays), letting the offense key in on him. This is because he's incredibly hard to bring down. Ivory has forced 57 missed tackles from a running position since entering the league, or one every 4.9 touches. This season, Adrian Peterson forced one every 5.4 touches.
Truth is that since the league typically pays for potential rather than production, Ivory could receive a nice-sized contract. Young, limited wear but enough proven production makes him a player with good demand heading into free agency this March.
Other players listed as "under the radar" free agents include guard Geoff Schwartz, center Fernando Velasco, wide receiver Brandon Gibson, defensive end William Hayes, cornerback Greg Toler, defensive linemen Desmond Bryant, Israel Idonije, Vance Walker and linebacker Brad Jones.