Cedric Benson Reportedly Expected to Sign with Green Bay Packers

Cedric Benson will be playing his 2012 season with Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers, according to ESPN's Chris Mortensen.

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Cedric Benson is in Green Bay, expected to sign with #Packers, per sources

— Chris Mortensen (@mortreport) August 10, 2012"

Benson's signing would give Green Bay some much-needed depth in the backfield, while also allowing them the option of running a two-back system with James Starks.

The former Texas Longhorns star is coming off a very productive 2011 campaign in Cincinnati. He rushed for 1,067 yards and six touchdowns, shouldering the bulk of the rushing load with the Bengals.

However, Cincinnati decided to cut ties with its former workhorse in an effort to get younger in the backfield. This left Benson on the outside looking in this offseason, and he struggled to find a new home in free agency.

The Packers, however, seem to be a perfect fit for Benson. He'll bring a much needed inside running presence to the Packers offense, along with the knowledge of a savvy veteran.

He may be turning 30 in December, but Benson has indicated he still has a few solid seasons left in the tank, rushing for over 1,000 yards the last three seasons.

With a great showing in camp, Benson could also overtake Starks atop the RB depth chart. Starks struggled in the role last season, when he was hampered by injuries.

Either way, the signing of Benson will shore up a weak spot on the roster, and give a quality player another chance in the league.