It’s what everyone expected would happen by sometime Wednesday morning: Terrell Owens(notes) is a Bengal. According to ProFootballTalk.com citing a league source, Owens will be signed for $2 million to play with Cincinnati in 2010, with a chance at another $2 million in incentives.
Owens, 36, will turn 37 in December. The Bills decided not to re-sign him after one season. The Bengals have been coy with their courting of the free-agent future Hall of Fame wideout, but in the end, the lobbying of another VH1 featured reality receiver, Chad Ochocinco pays off.
Cincinnati officials considered Owens early in the offseason before going younger and inking former Buccaneer Antonio Bryant to a long-term deal. But recent questions about Bryant’s health prompted the Bengals to find a veteran option to put opposite Ochocinco.
The team also expects big things out of young slot receiver Andre Caldwell and rookie tight end Jermaine Gresham has impressed as Carson Palmer’s new intermediate target so far. Owens just adds another weapon to a passing game that could really use the pop after Cincy relied heavily on Cedric Benson and the run to get to the playoffs last season.
As for Owens in 2009, he had 55 catches for 829 yards and five touchdowns during his lone Buffalo campaign. Owens has previously played for the Cowboys, Eagles and 49ers. Among active receivers, Owens ranks first in receptions (1,006), receving yards (14,951) and is only four behind Randy Moss for the lead in touchdowns (144)
Source: The Sporting News
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