Cedric Benson: Cincinnati Bengals Wise to Explore Other Options

The Cincinnati Bengals' starting running back Cedric Benson was suspended three games, and even though he appealed it, the Bengals are smart to be working on a backup plan just in case. 

There hasn't been a verdict on Benson's appeal, which means he is still allowed to play. The NFL is taking its time with this because the main concern is whether or not the league has the authority to issues a suspension for an off-field incident that happened during the lockout. 

According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, until the Bengals learn the ruling on Benson, they've decided to have Clinton Portis and Larry Johnson come in and work out with the team.

Portis continues to try and find a home as he has worked out for five teams this year. Johnson was recently cut by the Miami Dolphins; even though he and Portis are at the end of their careers, they can still help the Bengals out. 

Another option for Cincinnati might be Steve Slaton, who was waived by the Houston Texans on Tuesday. Slaton wasn't going to see the field behind Ben Tate, Derrick Ward and Arian Foster, so it was a good move for the Texans to dump him. 

NFL spokesman Greg Aiello told Pro Football Talk, "A player is not suspended until he has had an opportunity to file an appeal and for that appeal to be heard and adjudicated." 

This is good news for the Bengals; with no answer on the appeal just yet, Benson looks like a safe bet against the Buffalo Bills this weekend. 

Despite the Bills' 3-0 record, the Bengals have a shot against them. However, they desperately need Benson to dominate on the ground. If his appeal isn't granted, the Bengals will struggle at home against the Bills on Sunday. 

Benson's lawyer David Cornwell told Pro Football Talk by e-mail that he doesn't know when the ruling will come:

"

"We have numerous objections to Cedric’s suspension and had the opportunity to express them today to the the NFL’s hearing officer, Harold Henderson.

Mr. Henderson considered our evidence and arguments, but did not give an indication of when he will issue a ruling."

"

Benson should be a "go" for this weekend, and I believe he'll have a solid game. He's averaging over four yards a carry, and the Bills haven't been great at stopping the run in the last few years. 

There is still time for the NFL to make a decision, but it may not be until next week. That didn't stop Benson from stating he would be playing this weekend. 

Remember that Benson's off-field incident came while he wasn't even under contract. Since he wasn't even employed, you would think he wouldn't be subject to a suspension—hence the appeal.

However, because he's a repeat offender, it is believed that that is the reason he was given a suspension.

If no decision is made by the end of the day, it's unlikely one will be made this week, according to a source from the Cincinnati Enquirer. 

Whether or not Benson's suspension is lifted, the Bengals moving quickly to find a backup plan is a great idea. Bernard Scott has proven to be a good No. 2 for the Bengals, but adding a veteran presence in the hope that he can shine is a wise idea.

After all, it's not going to hurt to add Portis or Johnson—if it doesn't work out, they can easily cut them.