Cedric Benson: Updates on Bengals RB's Suspension and Week 6 Fantasy Value

Cedric Benson and the Cincinnati Bengals have been playing this suspension waiting game for the past three weeks, but there is word that the wait may be over sooner rather than later.

While it’s obvious he skirted the decision this week with 24 times for just 53 yards, Benson will be facing his fate later this week or early next week.

Sunday, Oct. 16 at 11:52 a.m. EDT

As expected, Cedric Benson was not one of Cincinnati's inactive players against Indianapolis, according to Rotoworld's Staff.

Thursday, Oct. 13 at 1:20 p.m. EDT

There isn't much news on the Benson suspension front other than that the decision on his appeal continues to be delayed. ESPN NFL reporter John Clayton suggests that the appeal could be revisited and decided upon next week, although it's still unclear.

Wednesday, Oct. 12 at 4:15 p.m. EDT -- Tim Daniels

The "Odds Father," billed as "industry leader in sports injuries and information," updated Benson's status for Sunday via Twitter after the RB's meeting with the NFL about his suspension. It's more good news for Cincinnati's workhorse.

Keep Benson in your fantasy starting lineup against Indianapolis' porous run defense on Sunday unless something changes over the next few days.

Wednesday, Oct. 12 at 1:55 p.m. EDT -- Tim Daniels

Cedric Benson has been able to delay his suspension for several weeks and the process doesn't appear to be nearing a conclusion anytime soon. The website Pro Player Insiders updated his status today.

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Bengals beat writer Joe Reedy hears from a National Labor Relations Board official that a decision regarding RB Cedric Benson’s suspension could still be 3-4 weeks away. It sounds like a bunch of legal mumbo-jumbo is going on here. If RB Bernard Scott is taking up a valuable roster spot on your squad, he’s droppable.

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Benson is the clear-cut lead back in Cincinnati, so keep him in your lineup while he remains active. The suspension ruling could come at any time, though, so have a backup option ready.

UPDATE: Tuesday, Oct. 11 at 6:02 p.m. EDT by Brandon Galvin

Cedric Benson is doing a fantastic job staying on the field despite the looming suspension. He continues to have his ruling delayed. At this rate, it feels like he could actually play all 16 games!

Joe Reedy of the Cincinnati Enquirer reports, "An official at Cincinnati's NLRB office estimates 3-4 weeks before decision on Benson's unfair labor practice charge against the NFLPA."

UPDATE: Monday, Oct. 10 at 8:33 p.m. EDT 

Great news for Cedric Benson's fantasy owners and the surprising 3-2 Cincinnati Bengals. Benson's suspension could be delayed, reports Rotoworld's Staff.

"According to ESPN's John Clayton, Cedric Benson's Tuesday meeting with the National Labor Relations Board could delay the start of his three-game suspension by another week."

UPDATE: Monday, Oct. 10 at 5:00 p.m. EDT by Donald Wood

The Cincinnati Bengals may be without powerful running back Cedric Benson this week because of a suspension for actions during the lockout, but a meeting with the Labor Relations board will yield more answers.

Cincinnati Enquirer Bengals beat writer Joe Reedy is reporting on twitter about Benson’s suspension and when a decision may be made:

While the future of Benson with the Bengals is unclear, the three game suspension looks like it will be fought by the Benson camp, and the result of the court’s decision may ring true for all of the suspensions levied for lockout infractions.

Cincinnati Bengals.com is reporting about the possibility of the legal matter surrounding Benson being handled by the time Week 6 kicks off:

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Also in play is Benson’s possible suspension. There is some thought that while Benson looks cleared to play this Sunday, the club may find out his fate for the Colts game on Oct. 16 and beyond as early as this Friday. Could that impact what the Bengals do with Scott in Jacksonville? Gruden says he’s just fine with Scott, Brian Leonard and Cedric Peerman as the backs if Benson does get suspended.

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While Benson has been utterly disappointing again as a running back, there have been bright spots when Bernard Scott gets on the field. If Benson is gone for three games, Scott would be an interesting pickup and a stellar addition in deeper fantasy leagues.

Benson should return after three games, so if you have him, you should hold onto him for the long haul of the playoffs.

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