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Every morning, grab a cup of coffee and get your AFC North wake-up call here:

To sum up the third week in the AFC North: There were three first-quarter touchdowns by a Ravens rookie (wide receiver Torrey Smith), two last-minute game-winning scores (by the Steelers and Browns) and one missing offense (at least that's the rumor in Cincinnati, where there were 20,000 empty seats for a home opener).

As a result, there's a three-team tie atop the AFC North with the Browns, Ravens and Steelers all sporting 2-1 records. The Bengals have lost two straight to fall into sole possession of last place.

At this moment, no other division has three teams in first place, although that could change in the NFC East if Dallas beats Washington on Monday night.

• BROWNS: In filling in for running back Peyton Hillis (illness), Montario Hardesty ran 14 times for 67 yards and caught three passes for 19 yards. His 10-yard catch on fourth-and-4 was a key play on the game-winning touchdown drive, as the Canton Repository pointed out. Hensley's slant: There's no question that the Browns need Hillis to return. But Hardesty's play should have earned him some more well-deserved playing time.
• BENGALS: With running back Cedric Benson possibly serving a three-game suspension from the NFL, the Bengals are bringing in Larry Johnson for a tryout, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer. Johnson was signed in 2009 by the Bengals after Benson suffered a hip flexor injury. Hensley's slant: Losing Benson for a three-game stretch would be a substantial blow to Cincinnati. After watching Andy Dalton suffer through some growing pains Sunday, it's apparent that he can't carry the team, especially in third-and-long situations.
• RAVENS: Baltimore decided to replace injured left guard Ben Grubbs (toe) with Andre Gurode instead of Mark LeVoir, and the results were much better than last Sunday's outing in Tennessee, according to The Baltimore Sun. Unlike a week ago, the offensive line opened big enough holes to allow running backs to average 9.3 yards per carry and gave Joe Flacco enough time to find Smith deep downfield. Hensley's slant: Gurode is one of the most accomplished backup offensive linemen that the Ravens have ever had. The only surprise is that Baltimore waited one week before putting him in the lineup to fill in for Grubbs.
• STEELERS: Cornerback Bryant McFadden was scratched for the second time in three games because of a hamstring injury, according to The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. William Gay started in McFadden's place. Hensley's slant: The Steelers had better get their secondary in order before playing next week against Matt Schaub and the Texans. That includes Ike Taylor, who got saved by an overthrown pass after getting faked out on a double move.

Let's answer some questions from our division inbox.

Will from Nashville, Tenn., wants to know how did the Baltimore Ravens "get away with" giving up third- and fourth-round picks for receiver Anquan Boldin.

James Walker: Boldin was entering the final year of his contract with the Arizona Cardinals, Will. That drove down the price tag significantly, because this offseason was probably the last chance for Arizona to get value for him. It was smart for Baltimore to strike when the asking price was much more affordable.

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Tim from Mooresville, NC, wants to know what does Pittsburgh's recent signings of Antwaan Randle El and Arnaz Battle mean for receiver Limas Sweed?

Walker: These signings should certainly send a message to Sweed. He is physically gifted but hasn't been able to put it together when given the opportunity, and now it looks like the Steelers are tired of waiting. It's early, but I would assume Randle El is Pittsburgh's fourth receiver. That leaves Battle and Sweed fighting to be the fifth receiver and possibly for a roster spot. Battle also is good on special teams, which could help his case.

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Kevin from Cleveland, Ohio, wants to know if the Cleveland Browns are willing to trade down from the No. 7 pick.

Walker: I don't see that happening this year, Kevin. The Browns did that last year and already have 11 draft picks. How many do they need? This draft is very talented and a great prospect should be available at No. 7. I anticipate Cleveland using the pick.

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Jake from Harrison, Ohio, writes: I was just wondering what the Cincinnati Bengals plan on doing with tailback Larry Johnson this upcoming year. Will they keep him or try to trade him to a team for a draft pick?

Walker: Johnson is an unrestricted free agent. So the Bengals cannot trade Johnson, who is free to sign with any team. Johnson is keeping all of his options open and has some visits lined up. But to get more playing time, he would have to leave Cincinnati. The Bengals like their tandem of Cedric Benson and Bernard Scott.

» AFC Free Agency: East | West | North | South » NFC: East | West | North | South

An early look at the free-agent situation in the AFC North.

Note: These projected lists reflect notable unrestricted free agents for each team. The NFL will not issue an official list of free agents until the signing period begins March 5.

Baltimore Ravens

Unrestricted free agents: DL Justin Bannan, K Billy Cundiff, DL Dwan Edwards, CB Corey Ivy, WR Derrick Mason, TE L.J. Smith, WR David Tyree, CB Frank Walker, WR Kelley Washington

Key figures: Derrick Mason is contemplating retirement. But if he wants to play, the Ravens have every intention of keeping their leading receiver. Look for Baltimore also to make a push for another significant addition at receiver to assist the development of budding quarterback Joe Flacco. Sleeper players on this list include the two defensive linemen: Justin Bannan and Dwan Edwards. The Ravens like both players and will probably make a push to keep at least one on the roster. Baltimore also lacks cornerback depth and might elect to bring back Frank Walker, despite his penchant for giving up big plays and committing penalties.

Cincinnati Bengals

Unrestricted free agents: K Shayne Graham, FB Jeremi Johnson, RB Larry Johnson, DT Tank Johnson, TE Reggie Kelly, DT Shaun Smith, OG Bobbie Williams, S Roy Williams

Key figures: Bobbie Williams is an interesting name. He’s one of Cincinnati’s most consistent offensive linemen over the last several years, but he turns 34 in September. Kicker Shayne Graham, who was franchised last season, had a solid career in Cincinnati. But he missed kicks in big spots, potentially ending his run with the Bengals. Running back Larry Johnson was third string in Cincinnati and should get more playing time elsewhere in 2010.

Cleveland Browns

Unrestricted free agents: WR Mike Furrey, TE Michael Gaines, OG Rex Hadnot, CB Hank Poteat, OL Ryan Tucker, OG Billy Yates

Key figures: This is not an impressive list as most of Cleveland's key free agents -- such as Jerome Harrison, Lawrence Vickers and D'Qwell Jackson -- are restricted. Mike Furrey is a high-character player that coach Eric Mangini likes on his football team, and he might be retained. The remaining players on this list likely will hit the open market. The Browns have an interesting decision to make with Harrison, who led the team in rushing after a tremendous second half of the 2009 season. Harrison could garner some interest as a restricted free agent if the Browns do not offer a high enough tender.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Unrestricted free agents: QB Charlie Batch, LB Rocky Boiman, S Tyrone Carter, S Ryan Clark, DE Nick Eason, WR Joey Galloway, NT Casey Hampton, DE Travis Kirschke, RB Willie Parker, K Jeff Reed, CB Deshea Townsend

Key figures: The Steelers are aiming to keep most of their key veterans, while infusing some youth through the draft. All indications are the team will offer extensions to safety Ryan Clark and kicker Jeff Reed. Pro Bowl nose tackle Casey Hampton is the biggest name on this list. But he's a strong candidate for the franchise tag, because there is no full-time replacement on the roster. This offseason probably will mark the end of tailback Willie Parker's tenure in Pittsburgh. Parker, 29, helped lead the Steelers to two Super Bowl wins during his career. But various ailments since initially breaking his leg in 2007 hampered his production.

Here are the most interesting stories Thursday in the AFC North:

• Let's start with a list of possible candidates for head coach and general manager under new Cleveland Browns president Mike Holmgren.

Morning take: I'm not overwhelmed by this list, but that's why Holmgren is paid the big bucks. Every decision he makes this offseason will be important.

• Cincinnati Bengals tailback Larry Johnson is playing it down the middle this week before meeting the Kansas City Chiefs, his former team.

Morning take: This is a good move. This week should be about Cincinnati clinching a playoff spot and the division, not one player's revenge.

• Baltimore Ravens backup quarterback Troy Smith wants a chance to compete for a starting job.

Morning take: Smith's best opportunity came last year when starter Joe Flacco was a rookie. But an illness cut that chance short. Now Smith has to go elsewhere for another shot.

• Which Pittsburgh Steelers made Sports Illustrated's All-Decade Team?

Morning take: I promise you will be surprised by who makes the cut and who doesn't for Pittsburgh. Click the link to find out.

Here are seven notes and observations from an interesting Week 15 in the AFC North:

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James Lang/US PresswireDemetrius Williams had four receptions for 71 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's win.
• A lot of great things came out of the Baltimore Ravens’ 31-7 blowout of the Chicago Bears. But one underlying positive that could help the team down the stretch was the play of receiver Demetrius Williams, who has been M.I.A. for the past two seasons. Williams caught four passes for 71 yards Sunday. He made a beautiful, athletic touchdown catch in the end zone that reminded everyone why the Ravens (8-6) keep banking on Williams’ potential. The Ravens hope that performance is the start of more production from Williams.
• In terms of negatives, Baltimore’s secondary is hurting heading into a big rivalry game against the Pittsburgh Steelers (7-7). Rookie cornerback Lardarius Webb tore his ACL Sunday and is done for the year. Pro Bowl safety Ed Reed (foot, groin) has been in and out of the lineup, and starting cornerback Fabian Washington already is lost for the season. The Ravens have struggled in the secondary all year, and these injuries only make things more difficult.
• The Steelers need help from the Philadelphia Eagles (10-4). Win or lose this weekend, the Steelers do not own the tiebreaker over the Ravens. So Pittsburgh's best hope is for the Denver Broncos (8-6) to falter. The Steelers beat the Broncos in Denver, 28-10, on Nov. 9 and own the head-to-head tiebreaker.
• Pittsburgh left tackle Max Starks had his hands full with Green Bay Packers rookie outside linebacker Clay Matthews Jr. Sunday. Matthews is a tremendous player and may be the NFL's top defensive rookie, but I had expected Starks to utilize his size and veteran savvy. Instead, Matthews looked like a veteran and beat Starks numerous times with his quickness. The rookie had two sacks and another one negated by a booth review.
• Here is an AFC North blog prediction: Don’t be surprised if Jim Zorn lands with the Cleveland Browns in some capacity next year. Yes, Zorn is currently the head coach of the Washington Redskins. But it's the worst-kept secret in the league that he’s on the outs and Washington is eyeing Mike Shanahan. With Mike Holmgren expected to take over the Browns this week, Zorn could be among the first people he recruits in the offseason, most likely as a quarterbacks coach, which is Zorn's specialty. Cleveland quarterback Brady Quinn has been through a lot of adversity and transition already in his young career. So Quinn could use a steady hand.
• The Cincinnati Bengals (9-5) responded well during their 27-24 loss to the San Diego Chargers (11-3), despite the tragic passing last week of receiver Chris Henry. San Diego has just about wrapped up the No. 2 seed and a first-round bye, but the Chargers lost to or struggled against every AFC North team this season. If Cincinnati gets another shot at San Diego in the playoffs, which is very possible, the Bengals should feel confident about this favorable matchup.
• This is a big week for Bengals tailback Larry Johnson. Cincinnati will play host to Johnson's former team, the Kansas City Chiefs, where he spent the past seven years of his career. Johnson was released by Kansas City last month on bad terms after making controversial statements about the team and media. It will be interesting to see if Johnson acknowledges the revenge angle or downplays it. But rest assured, he wants to run hard against his former team.

» NFC Final Word: East | West | North | South » AFC: East | West | North | South

Five nuggets of knowledge about Week 13:

'Big Ben' is back: Amid controversy and plenty of national headlines, Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger returns to the starting lineup Sunday against the Oakland Raiders. Team captain Hines Ward questioned the decision to pull Roethlisberger one day before Pittsburgh’s loss to the Baltimore Ravens. But Ward said this week that the issue has been resolved. The best way for the Steelers to truly move on is to get back on the winning track and for Roethlisberger to have a big game. Their three-game skid has caused a lot of discontent for a proud group that’s not used to losing this time of year. This game against Oakland is virtually a must-win for the Steelers (6-5), who have a small margin of error if they want to get into the postseason.

Benson rejoins crowded field: Another player who is returning to the starting lineup, but with less attention, is Cincinnati Bengals starting tailback Cedric Benson. He missed the past two weeks with a hip injury. Cincinnati’s offense has run the ball well without Benson, which makes you wonder how carries will be distributed between Benson, former Pro Bowler Larry Johnson and rookie Bernard Scott. All three tailbacks have had 100-yard games this season. Benson wasn't too happy with the recent signing of Johnson. It will be interesting to see how Cincinnati's coaching staff handles this sensitive matter the rest of the season.

Protections issues: If the Baltimore Ravens (6-5) want to pull off the upset Monday and beat the Green Bay Packers (7-4) at Lambeau Field, the Ravens must apply constant pressure on Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Green Bay's offense is red hot, averaging 32 points the past two weeks. But the Packers’ biggest weakness has been protecting Rodgers, who has been sacked an astounding 44 times. Baltimore has been inconsistent in rushing the passer. But this is a golden opportunity for the Ravens to turn up the heat against a team that hasn’t blocked well all season.

The Clayton factor: In the first four games after the bye week, Baltimore Ravens receiver Mark Clayton had only five catches for 58 yards. Then Clayton exploded for seven catches for 129 yards in last week’s huge win over Pittsburgh. The Ravens (6-5) need more of that from their former first-round pick if they expect to make a push to the postseason. Clayton has been one of the great enigmas in the AFC North. He’s had big performances over his five-year career but usually disappears for weeks afterward. Clayton's biggest game before Sunday was in Baltimore's season opener against the Kansas City Chiefs, when he had five catches for 77 yards and a touchdown.

New rushers: With the season-ending concussion to Jamal Lewis, the Cleveland Browns will now turn to backups Jerome Harrison and Chris Jennings for the remainder of the season. Both Harrison and Jennings have shown a few flashes this year but are averaging only 3.6 and 3.4 yards per carry respectively. The coaching staff pretty much knows what it has in Harrison, who is a smaller, change-of-pace type of runner who struggles with pass protection. Look for the team to give Jennings a lot of touches down the stretch to find out what the former CFL product is made of.

» NFC Stock Watch: East | West | North | South » AFC: East | West | North | South

Falling

1. Pittsburgh Steelers: The defending champions have lost three straight and are in serious danger of missing the playoffs for the first time since 2006. Various injuries to veteran leaders Troy Polamalu (knee), Ben Roethlisberger (concussion) and Aaron Smith (shoulder) are obvious factors. But the quality of play just hasn’t been the same this year, especially during November.

Lately there also appear to be some chemistry issues, which we will address in the AFC North blog later this week (hint, hint). Roethlisberger’s late scratch seemed to be a big topic of discussion after the team’s latest loss, and things like this always seem to crop up when a team is losing.

2. Mohamed Massaquoi, Browns receiver: The Browns have to go through the growing pains of playing young receivers, and the Bengals’ secondary put on a clinic of shutting down Cleveland’s top threat in rookie Mohamed Massaquoi.

Cleveland's second-round pick was held to one catch for 12 yards. He was targeted eight times by quarterback Brady Quinn but was smothered in a 16-7 loss.

Massaquoi's had some big games and some duds this year. He's been on both sides of our Stock Watch. The Georgia product needs to work on being a consistent threat for the Browns week-to-week.

3. Ike Taylor, Steelers cornerback: The usually solid Taylor did not have one of his better games in Sunday’s 20-17 overtime loss to the Baltimore Ravens. Among the plays he gave up Sunday night were a jump-ball touchdown catch to Ravens receiver Derrick Mason, and a big pass inference call in the second half.

Every cornerback has their rough outings. Taylor is a very good cornerback, and this is the first time he’s landed in the “falling” category in an otherwise solid season.

Rising

1. Larry Johnson, Bengals tailback: It’s never good news when your starting tailback (Cedric Benson) goes down. But the situation did help spur the Bengals to pick up veteran Larry Johnson.

After a couple of weeks in the system, Johnson broke out with 107 rushing yards on 22 carries in a win over the Browns. In many ways he looked like the old "L.J." as he dominated in between the tackles and was hard to bring down. If Johnson continues to run this well, he will be a factor in Cincinnati’s playoff run even when Benson returns.

2. Mark Clayton, Ravens receiver: In a crucial game against their biggest rival, the Ravens needed someone to step up offensively against the Steelers. That player happened to be Clayton, who is talented but not always consistent.

Clayton recorded seven receptions for 129 yards and Baltimore needed every bit of his production. His longest catch was for 54 yards. If the Ravens plan to make a run to the playoffs, they will need more games like this from Clayton to pair with the always dangerous Derrick Mason.

3. Paul Kruger, Ravens linebacker: As the season has gone on, Baltimore’s 2009 draft is looking better and better.

It started with first-round pick Michael Oher, who has solidified the right tackle spot since Week 1. Third-round pick Lardarius Webb then got his opportunity recently to produce as a kick returner and in the secondary. But Sunday it was Kruger, Baltimore’s second-rounder, who made the biggest play of the game.

Kruger’s interception of Steelers quarterback Dennis Dixon in overtime set up Baltimore’s game-winning field goal. He also had two tackles filling in for injured Pro Bowl linebacker/defensive end Terrell Suggs.

Here are seven notes and observations from Week 12 in the AFC North:

• I'm not sure the Pittsburgh Steelers (6-5) or Baltimore Ravens (6-5) are playoff worthy. Something must change, because the Ravens and Steelers are not performing close to the same level I witnessed this time last season on their way to the AFC title game. Sunday night's game was wildly entertaining, but it was also very sloppy. There were three turnovers after halftime, including Pittsburgh's crucial interception in overtime, and 14 combined penalties amassing 139 yards. Many of the penalties were careless. The fact Baltimore struggled at home against a third-string quarterback is not encouraging. Also, Pittsburgh losing three straight, albeit without Ben Roethlisberger in one of those losses, makes it hard to believe the Steelers could pull off a repeat of 2005, which included winning four straight postseason games away from home.
• There was tension in the Steelers’ locker room Sunday night. Players are frustrated. Veteran receiver Hines Ward was among the most vocal, even venting his frustration that Roethlisberger (concussion) was pulled at the last minute. Chances are this is something that could simply blow over with winning. Ward wears his heart on his sleeve and is upset with losing three straight. He went on ESPN's SportsCenter Monday morning to clarify his statements.
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Frank Victores/US PresswireLarry Johnson rushed for 107 yards on 22 carries Sunday.
• The Ravens were better in the red zone, going 2-for-4 after being shut out in four attempts in last week’s loss to the Indianapolis Colts. I liked getting defensive tackle Haloti Ngata back in as one of the lead blockers. Ngata crushed a Pittsburgh defender during running back Willis McGahee’s touchdown run in the first quarter.
• Is it time to start worrying about the passing game of the Cincinnati Bengals? Quarterback Carson Palmer hasn’t looked comfortable lately, as the Bengals’ offensive line has been surprisingly shaky the past two weeks against inferior opponents in the Oakland Raiders (3-8) and Cleveland Browns (1-10). Cincinnati only has 317 passing yards in its past two games, and Palmer has been sacked six times in that span. The Browns also got six additional hits on Palmer on Sunday. If the Bengals (8-3) plan to keep winning down the stretch and into the postseason, the team must get back to protecting its most valuable asset.
• A great bright spot for Cincinnati was the performance of Larry Johnson. The veteran tailback ran hard between the tackles, gaining 107 yards on 22 carries against the Browns. Cincinnati has implemented plays that Johnson is most familiar with, and he looked very natural running them. Johnson may take carries away from injured starter Cedric Benson (hip) even when he returns. But a trio of a healthy Benson, Johnson and rookie Bernard Scott could give a lot of defenses headaches.
• Brady Quinn wasn’t nearly as comfortable in the pocket and that was the difference in Cleveland's 16-7 loss to the Bengals. Quinn was coming off a career-high 304 yards and four touchdowns against the Detroit Lions. But he threw for just 100 yards and no touchdowns against the Bengals. Cincinnati only had one sack and three quarterback hits, but the Bengals covered on the back end much better than Detroit and forced Quinn to try to fit the ball into tight spots. Quinn’s timing and throws were off and that was enough to disrupt Cleveland’s offensive rhythm. The Browns were 4-of-14 on third down.
• As a final note, I was pleasantly surprised by the play of new Browns linebacker Matt Roth. The former second-round draft pick was cut by the Miami Dolphins last week and picked up by Cleveland on waivers. After just several days of preparation, Roth already appeared to be one of the Browns’ more active defenders, recording seven tackles and a sack. It’s probably not a good sign when a waiver wire pickup sees significant playing time so early. But Cleveland may have found a nice late-season gem in Roth.

It wasn’t pretty, but the Cincinnati Bengals accomplished a feat that no one could’ve predicted coming into the 2009 season.

Cincinnati completed an impressive season sweep of the entire AFC North Sunday with a 16-7 victory over the Cleveland Browns. The win gives the Bengals an 8-3 record, 6-0 in the division, and keeps them in contention for a first-round bye in the AFC playoffs.

It was a sloppy game for the most part. But there were several bright spots for the first-place Bengals.

Recent pickup and backup tailback Larry Johnson (22 carries, 107 rushing yards) had his best game to date with his new team. Cincinnati's defense also had no problem cooling off Browns quarterback Brady Quinn (100 passing yards), who could not duplicate the success he had last week against the Detroit Lions.

The game marked the sixth straight loss for the Browns, who fell to 1-10 on the season.

Here are the most interesting stories Friday in the AFC North:

• With starting tailback Cedric Benson (hip) still missing practice, it appears Larry Johnson could make his Cincinnati Bengals debut Sunday against the Oakland Raiders.

Morning take: The Bengals should beat Oakland with or without Benson and could still get Johnson acclimated to the new offense.

• Baltimore Ravens Pro Bowl linebacker Terrell Suggs doesn’t believe his sprained knee will end his season.

Morning take: But Suggs’ injury comes at an awful time for Baltimore, which needs to get hot down the stretch. Expect Indianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning to have a little extra time in the pocket Sunday.

• Cleveland Browns cornerback Brandon McDonald is struggling with allowing big plays once again.

Morning take: McDonald had a good rookie stretch as a nickel cornerback a few years ago but was never the same player as a full-time starter. I’m surprised the Browns never found a way to place him back as the No. 3 corner.

• Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger hopes to redeem himself after a poor game against Cincinnati last week.

Morning take: It’s rare that Roethlisberger has bad games in back-to-back weeks. Don't expect it Sunday against the lowly Kansas City Chiefs.

Here are the most interesting stories Thursday in the AFC North:

• Longtime ex-Baltimore Ravens kicker Matt Stover will make his return Sunday as a member of the Indianapolis Colts.

Morning take: The irony is Baltimore cut Steve Hauschka this week after not giving Stover a chance to compete in the offseason. That was a mistake.

• Cincinnati Bengals tailback Larry Johnson's immediate role will depend on the injury status of starter Cedric Benson (hip).

Morning take: If Benson doesn’t practice, he probably won’t play. It’s probably wise to sit a game anyway with so many carries already under his belt.

• The Pittsburgh Steelers need help again on special teams.

Morning take: Pittsburgh’s special teams have been hot and cold for a few years now. In 2007 it was kick coverage. Last year it was punting. Now the kick coverage is shaky again.

• There are a lot of questions surrounding the 1-8 Cleveland Browns.

Morning take: Perhaps my biggest questions are what's this team building toward, who are the future cornerstones and what is this team’s identity moving forward?

Larry Johnson addresses the media after signing with the Cincinnati Bengals.

Here are the most interesting stories Tuesday in the AFC North:

• The Pittsburgh Steelers offered no official word, but it appears Pro Bowl safety Troy Polamalu (knee) will miss at least one game.

Morning take: Consider this a victory if this is the worst of the news. The Steelers will be fine if Polamalu only has to sit for the short term.

• Are the Cincinnati Bengals taking a huge risk with running back Larry Johnson?

Morning take: I view this as a calculated risk. The Bengals are getting Johnson on the cheap, and I don’t think one player can bring this team down.

• The Baltimore Ravens produced their first shutout of the season during Monday’s 16-0 win over the Cleveland Browns.

Morning take: Baltimore’s defense needed this kind of performance. The offense had been carrying the team nearly all season.

• Is playing for a half considered progress for the Browns?

Morning take: It is considering how the Browns have played recently. But playing just a half still gets you beat most weeks.

ESPN’s Michael Smith is reporting that former Kansas City Chiefs tailback Larry Johnson will sign with the first-place Cincinnati Bengals this week.

Are you surprised? Well, you shouldn’t be.

Despite Johnson's troubled past, here are several reasons this move could work for Cincinnati:

1. Little risk

This move has Bengals written all over it, because they are purchasing a stock at its lowest possible point. According to Smith, the deal is expected to be prorated for the rest of the season at the league minimum. With seven games left in the regular season, Cincinnati is getting a former Pro Bowler virtually for free. If it doesn’t work, the Bengals can cut ties with Johnson after the season as easily as they got him.

2. Benson factor

As evident by his recent hip injury, it was just a matter of time before wear and tear began to take hold with Bengals starting tailback Cedric Benson. He was on pace for more than 400 carries this year, and with Cincinnati (7-2) expected to get into the postseason, the team needs to make sure Benson doesn’t peak too early. Signing Johnson allows that to happen. A workhorse in his own right, he can take a lot of the pounding down the stretch that Benson otherwise would take. It’s unknown at this point if Benson will be ready for Sunday’s game against the Oakland Raiders. But having Johnson paired with rookie Bernard Scott next week might not be a bad move while resting Benson.

3. L.J. adds depth

Benson putting up Pro Bowl numbers through the first nine games masked one of Cincinnati’s few weaknesses this year. The Bengals were pretty thin at tailback. The aforementioned Scott broke out in a win against the Pittsburgh Steelers Sunday on special teams but hadn’t shown much in the backfield during the first half of the season. Brian Leonard is a converted fullback who received some carries and did well with limited opportunities. But mostly it was all Benson all the time. Johnson is a proven commodity who adds experienced depth at the position.

4. Strong locker room

In the past, Cincinnati adding a troubled player would be a disaster. But this is as professional a Bengals team as you’re going to see. Cincinnati has very good chemistry this year and a strong enough foundation to take on Johnson. Winning also helps as the Bengals are one of the best teams in the AFC. Players are not worried about their contracts and all have a common goal in mind of finishing strong and doing well in the playoffs. As long as Johnson concentrates on playing hard for the team and reestablishing his own image individually, this experiment could work for the Bengals.

Posted by ESPN.com's James Walker

We have lots of mail to catch up on, and I'm trying to answer as many as possible.

Let's dig into some more questions.

Jason from Knoxville, TN writes: Hey James, with the Pro Bowl...how is it that the Ravens' defense got more players into the Pro Bowl over the Steelers' #1 rated defense? Lamarr Woodley not going? Ike Taylor gets hidden in the shadows? What's the deal James?

James Walker: What's up, J. Mills? Overall ranking is not the only determining factor. Pittsburgh was the No. 1 defense in the NFL, but Baltimore was No. 2. I don't think it's an injustice that the Ravens got one more player into the Pro Bowl than the Steelers. The swing vote went to Baltimore linebacker/defensive end Terrell Suggs, who just beat out Steelers outside linebacker LaMarr Woodley. Otherwise, Pittsburgh would have had one more defensive player in Hawaii.

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Gregory from White Plains writes: Everette Brown: Todd McShay has the Browns taking Brown with the 5 overall pick. Please please please tell me they are not actually considering this. We already tried this with Wimbley and it clearly has not worked out. They wouldn't really try to convert another pass rushing DE from Fl St. to an OLB again would they? I think we've endured enough pain as fans without doing this twice. On a better note: any ideas about who they might be looking at, or even if they might be trying to trade down?

James Walker: It's hard to tell what the new regime in Cleveland is thinking at the moment, Gregory, because it's still putting together a coaching and scouting staff. So I would assume this team is still far from decided its direction in the draft, especially before the combine. But Brown is a possibility because Cleveland needs dynamic talent on defense. Brown is versatile and can play both defensive end and outside linebacker, and you need those players in a 3-4 defense. Just because he's from Florida State, that shouldn't be held against him.

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Matt from Rancho Cucamonga, CA writes: Hey James, love the coverage you give to the AFC North. With the free agents for the steelers i see them resigning McFadden and either Max Starks or Chris Kemoatu. My question is who do you see them signing as the back up quarterback, Leftwich or Batch or neither?

James Walker: Thanks, Matt. Byron Leftwich likely will not return as he is seeking a starting job or at least a chance to start elsewhere. Charlie Batch is a good possibility to sign a one-year deal. He knows the system. The only question is where is his health at this point coming off a collarbone injury?

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Todd from Encinitas, CA writes: Mr. Walker, any guesses on what happens with LeCharles Bentley in 2009? Thanks

James Walker: Todd, it's probably a 50-50 chance Bentley returns to football. His life was literally in danger in Cleveland dealing with the multiple surgeries resulting from staph, and going through that plus the business side of football has really soured him on returning. Teams also are questioning his health, which makes it a two-way street.

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Brian from Latrobe writes: What are the Steelers chances of getting Larry Johnson? I know the Steelers usually don't get "trouble makers" but Johnson is the type of back they need.

James Walker: I don't see it, Brian. Johnson's downhill style would fit, but he costs a lot of money and doesn't seem to fit the Pittsburgh mold inside the locker room. Plus, the Steelers already have a deep running back core with Willie Parker, Mewelde Moore, Gary Russell and the return of 2008 first-round pick Rashard Mendenhall, who should develop into a solid player in his second year.