Dear Bengals Fans...An Open Letter From Terrell Owens

Terrell Owens is no stranger to making headlines, usually not for the right reasons. Today, Terrell Owens released an open letter to the fans and people of Cincinnati in what I perceive as a great example of how he has matured and is not the character that many seem so adamant that he is.

It reads:

Dear Bengals Nation,

Feb. 6, 2011 is now marked on my calendar with a big orange circle. As I joined the Cincinnati Bengals and continue my career I’m very excited with the opportunity to be in pursuit of the championship.

First off, I’m thankful to Mike Brown and the Bengals organization for giving me another opportunity to play football.

Second, I’m certain in life nothing is guaranteed—but for us to win the Super Bowl it will take a total team effort.

Third, I’m promising you that the focus will be stronger than you’ve ever seen it. Life isn’t always easy but it’s the bumps along the way that makes you stronger. With my “me against the world” mentality as a young man, I’ve learned that life can be more challenging but I’ve matured.

If it wasn’t for the support of my grandmother and the love of my family and true friends, I would be lost. My faith, confidence and maturity keeps me strong and focused on more than just T.O.

The Bengals are now my extended family and I look forward to learning more about your city, teammates, coaches and you all. This is my home and I’m happy to be in the Midwest. I’m confident in our team’s chances of winning the title, so anything less than the playoffs is unacceptable to us. It will definitely take a fight but if my gut is correct, Who Dey Nation will be proud this season. I signed here for a reason.

With hard work and unity, this team will restore power and respect. We’re focused on playing in Texas on Feb. 6. Just take a look at my calendar, the date is saved. Let’s make the Jungle roar this season!

Yours truly,

Terrell Owens aka T.O. aka “I’m Batman!”

I think this was a great thing for Terrell to do—it gives fans a real sense that he is enthusiastic and ready to play as part of a cohesive unit and that he is not the "me first" player he has been made out to be. I think it really proves that people do change and that Terrell is no longer the "locker room cancer" he once was.

It gives fans hope for the coming season and i'm sure it will inspire his teammates and hopefully make them as excited as he is for the coming season. If Terrell Owens delivers on the focus and drive he has promised, it could make for a very strong offensive unit for Cincinnati.

Goodbye, Terrell Owens of old.

Hello, Terrell 2K10. It's great to have you.

What are your thoughts on this letter? Is is simply pandering to fans, or do you think it is a step in the right direction for Terrell?