NFL Rumors: Braylon Edwards Makes Perfect Sense for the Cincinnati Bengals

The Cincinnati Bengals are still looking to add a legitimate No. 2 receiver, and free agent Braylon Edwards makes a lot of sense for the team.

Joe Reedy of the Cincinnati Enquirer said he wouldn't be surprised if Edwards lands in Cincinnati because of the team's inexperience at the position. That followed a report by ESPN's Adam Schefter that the Bengals were definitely interested in the 29-year-old wideout. 

Edwards is currently rehabbing a knee injury that limited him for most of the 2011 season. A torn right meniscus led to the Michigan product only suiting up for nine games with the San Francisco 49ers last season. During his time by the Bay, Edwards only made 15 catches for 181 yards. 

While he has largely been considered a bust throughout his career, Edwards would actually make a lot of sense for the Bengals as a No. 2 receiver across from second-year wideout A.J. Green. Regardless of his faults, Edwards is big (6'3" and 214 pounds) and athletic, and in the right situation could be an asset.

When not counted on to beat top-level cornerbacks, he might actually shine. After all, he is just one season removed from a 2010 campaign where he caught 53 passes for 904 yards and seven touchdowns with the New York Jets. Those would be outstanding numbers for a No. 2 receiver.

There is no doubting Edwards' talent, and according to Jets general manager Mike Tannenbaum, he has great practice habits. 

Having a veteran around who works hard is never a bad thing, and that might help Green and 2012 draftees Mohamed Sanu and Marvin Jones develop. 

I don't see the downside in adding Edwards on a short, incentive-laden contract. In fact, it would be a low-risk, high-reward situation for the Bengals.