2012 NFL Free Agents: Ranking the Best Landing Spots for Cedric Benson

Goodbye Cedric Benson.

That’s what the Cincinnati Bengals are essentially saying after signing free agent BenJarvus Green-Ellis this week.

The 29-year-old former fourth-overall pick still has some life in him after experiencing a career revival in Cincinnati after being cut by the Chicago Bears in 2008.

Benson led the team in rushing yards and yards from scrimmage each of the last three years. He went over 1,000 yards rushing each of those seasons and rushed for 4,176 yards in four years with Cincinnati at 3.8 yards per carry.

So where will he end up? Here are the three most likely options.

3. New York Giants

With Brandon Jacobs unlikely to return, the need for a power runner alongside the speedy Ahmad Bradshaw is certainly there.

Benson is a veteran with playoff experience who can help fill a need immediately without any sort of growing pains drafting a rookie would require.

The Giants are trying to win now and need a veteran like Benson. Plus, he’ll come at a very cheap price.

2. Washington Redskins

Assuming that Robert Griffin III is now on board, the ‘Skins need a bigger back for blocking purposes on top of his running skills.

Benson has always been a sound pass protector and would likely be the starter over Roy Helu. He can handle the heavy load the Redskins offense would require of him and can teach the young group of skill players how to play the game the right way.

1. Indianapolis Colts

The Colts were ranked 26th in the league in rushing last year as once again Joseph Addai—aka “papier mache man”—was dealing with various ailments.

His backups (Donald Brown, Delone Carter) played like backups, and the team would be best served to bring in a durable guy like Benson to ensure the next Addai injury doesn’t sink their running game yet again.

The Colts have to bring in somebody, and why not make it a cheap veteran that is still capable of reaching the 1,000-yard mark?

Follow Eric Ball on Twitter.