Rob Carr - Getty Images
4 months ago: INDIANAPOLIS, IN - FEBRUARY 05: Mario Manningham #82 of the New York Giants makes a catch on the sidelines against Sterling Moore #29 of the New England Patriots for a gain of 38 yards in the fourth quarter during Super Bowl XLVI at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 5, 2012 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)
It has been said over and over again, but one of the many positions that must be addressed this offseason is wide receiver. It is unclear whether that receiver will come through the draft or through free agency, however it is clear that neither Jerome Simpson nor any other roster player can be relied upon to fill the position. As it stands now A.J. Green is the No. 1 wide receiver and Jordan Shipley is a solid option at the slot. That leaves the void at the No. 2 wide out, and with more pressing needs at the draft than second receiver (cornerback, guard), free agency looks like a better option with each passing day. It's a strong year for free agent wide receivers too. The list includes Colts Reggie Wayne and Pierre Garcon, Dwayne Bowe, Stevie Johnson, Brandon Lloyd, and Saints Robert Meachem and Marques Colston. However, the most intriguing wide out of this offseason's class of free agents is a guy who very recently demonstrated his big play ability to 111 million viewers: Mario Manningham.
Let's look at the logistics of signing free agent Mario Manningham.
Availability - Manningham did just have the game of his life in Super Bowl XLVI, but to most that came as a surprise. Why? Because his role within the Giants organization has been slipping since the emergence of Victor Cruz. The salsa dancing slot receiver surpassed Manningham on Eli's list of favorite targets, catching 82 balls for 1536 yards while Manningham's numbers dropped way down to 39 catches for 523 yards. Those numbers aren't typical for Manningham (57 catches for 822 yards in 2009; 60 catches for 944 yards in 2010) and it's hard to believe that he is satisfied with the distant No. 3 receiver spot behind Victor Cruz and Hakeem Nicks. Plus, Manningham free agent stock drastically improved after his Super Bowl performance, so expect him to want a considerable salary increase and the Giants to not want to pay for it. Pro Football Weekly writes,
In order to keep him, the Giants likely would have to give Manningham starting-caliber money - and they still will want to work on an extension for Victor Cruz for down the road. It's possible that the team could allow Manningham to walk if the price gets too high and turn back to former Giants WR Steve Smith.
Which leads to...
Affordability - Most everyone is considered affordable with the amount of cap room Cincinnati has, but don't expect Mike Brown and the Bengals to break the bank for a No. 2 receiver. Vincent Jackson, Reggie Wayne, Marques Colston and DeSean Jackson will cost a fortune to sign and will most likely be unavailable anyway. Brandon Lloyd and Dwayne Bowe could be thrown in that list too, considering their recent production.
Manningham's upcoming salary will increase, but still won't be near the salary of those six receivers.
He fits Cincinnati's system - (I didn't know how to more bluntly title this section) Obviously, the most important point. The primary benefit of signing a free agent receiver as opposed to drafting one is that the player comes in already knowing how to play the game and not needing significant time to develop. Even if Cincinnati uses their very first pick on receiver, that would most likely still be the third or fourth receiver drafted and be a far cry from the immediate impact of A.J. Green. Manningham comes in with a few years of experience and, as we all saw in the Super Bowl, knowing how to play the game. Is there a free agent receiver who would fit with Cincinnati better? The list of free agents is a polarization of clear No. 1s--something the Bengals definitely do not need--and much less talented No. 2s, for example: Early Doucet, Donnie Avery, Legedu Naanee, Plaxico Burress, etc. Manningham falls above players such as that, but below star players requesting top money. Perhaps Buffalo's Stevie Johnson falls into a similar category as Manningham, but Johnson gives the impression of a less talented, more troublesome Ochocinco. Who wants to deal with that?
The glimmer of the Super Bowl's biggest play will wear off, and once again we'll all realize Manningham is not a star and is unable take over a game like the league's top receivers can. But that doesn't mean he's without value--far from it. He has speed, good hands and terrific play making ability. Lined up wide, he isn't a player defenses can just forget. Isn't that just the type of player the Bengals are looking for?
0 recs | 202 comments
NO !!
sofakingood - February 8, 2012
Nope
If we’re going to sign Manningham, just keep Simpson.
Oregonbengalsfan - February 8, 2012
Somebody is going to overpay him
I hope it’s not us. I think he’d be a great #2 receiver for us, but I’m sure he wants to get paid like a #1.
Animal_Like_Football - February 8, 2012
His routes are sloppy, he drops passes
and he’s not near as athletic as Jerome. The only thing over Simpson that he has is he wasn’t brought up on charges.
Oregonbengalsfan - February 8, 2012
Yeah,
but he’s not a f***ing r*tard. Sorry for that kind of language, but seriously, Simpson’s an idiot. Just a moron.
Pardon_My_French - February 8, 2012
So is Manningham. He's not known for his intelligence.
Mexal - February 9, 2012
you make a great arguement
NOT!
AMAS85 - February 9, 2012
Simpson 2.0, no thanks.
The Van Buren Boys - February 9, 2012
?
What? How is he Simpson 2.0?
The Dealio - February 9, 2012
Drops, doesn't seem to be the brightest bulb......
see many other reasons on this page.
The Van Buren Boys - February 10, 2012
Not big on Manningham
Yes, he made the big play in the Super Bowl but they also mentioned during the game how he has a habit of drifting towards the sideline on routes. Also, I dont see him bringing speed. I would rather have Wayne, who I dont see getting a huge contract.
EPK1979 - February 8, 2012 via mobile
He has good hands?
I always thought he was up there in drops. Maybe I’m wrong.
whodeycommish14 - February 8, 2012 via mobile
He is close to JS in drops
Oregonbengalsfan - February 8, 2012
2011 Drops
Vincent Jackson: 115 Targets…6 drops
Jerome Simpson: 105 Targets…8 drops
DeSean Jackson: 104 Targets…9 drops
Dwayne Bowe: 141 Targets…12 drops
Mario Manningham: 77 Targets…3 drops
Reggie Wayne is a different story, but he’s going to cost a ton more than Manningham. THAT is No. 1 money, not nearly what you’d pay Manningham.
Jack Cassidy - February 8, 2012
there's a reason giants will let him walk
remember tyree? he made a huge play in the sb. we shouldn’t pay a number 3 WR number 2 money. mario will want more money then what he will do production wise
cincybengals - February 8, 2012
You're missing 3 drops on manningham
PFF
Oregonbengalsfan - February 8, 2012
same article also says
Manningham was among the best last year… things can change quickly
The Dealio - February 9, 2012
The issue is half these people haven't seen him play
They are basing their opinions off what was said about him during the super bowl
Diesel2405 - February 9, 2012
Living in giants country-they love him
njbengalstat - February 9, 2012
"Mario Manningham, who had the 12th best score in 2010 and the 18th worst in 2011"
I saw that part… it went on to say
Oregonbengalsfan - February 9, 2012
No thanks on Manningham
Drop rate is off btw. And he doesn’t run good routes either. That’s probably the most important thing for our No2. Pass.
UIsteve - February 8, 2012
Pierre Garcon.
Much much better option.
Cry - February 8, 2012
I think Indy may pay Garcon
which would leave Wayne available, which is intriguing.
txbengal29 - February 8, 2012
Ehhh...
Wayne is getting up there in age. We might be able to get one or two good years out of him if we sign him to a two or three-year deal and given this franchise’s history in free agency during the Mike Brown-era, most likely any free agents we bring in will likely be on one or two-year deals. Wayne has too much of a possibility of delivering Laveranues Coles-like production for us if we bring him in. I’d rather go with someone younger.
dstacify - February 8, 2012
Wayne is much better than Coles
but I agree with you that Wayne is too old and won’t fit in long with this team.
The Dealio - February 9, 2012
Who really knows. When you have Manning throwing to you, even I would look good.
Mexal - February 9, 2012
He doesn't need to fit in long with this team
Oregonbengalsfan - February 9, 2012
+1
A couple yrs would be ideal. That way we can possibly get a WR in next yrs draft. With two 2nd rnd picks we have a good chance to be in the thick of things in next yrs draft also. Hopefully Oak bombs this season and it’s a high pick. I would say I hope they do well enough to make it a first but if they do I’m thinking it may be at our expense at some point.
Bigcatdaddy - February 9, 2012 via Android app
Pass on Garcon
Career Completion Rate is 52% off the top of my head (might be 54). Wayne is around 62% and is a better route runner, both can go deep. I’d take Wayne for 2-3 years over Garcon for 4+, even paying more money. No2 needs to be consistent. Good thing for us is that Wayne first wants money, second a chance to win.
UIsteve - February 9, 2012
But he's better now..
much better. Sooo..
Cry - February 9, 2012
Not really.
Better when P Manning is passing to him, yes. Career Completion Rate is 55.3%, 2011 was 52.2%. Jerome Simpson’s Career CR% is 53.6%….
UIsteve - February 9, 2012
He's right!
I would take Pierre Garcon all day over Mario. Garcon is on the verge of being a star and we would be dumb not to shoot him an offer…
Davey Boi Sully - February 9, 2012
No thanks...
Just give Armon Binns a shot. I don’t think we need any of the FA WR’s available. We could use that cash on more important spots.— maybe a top tier OG.
Yarin - February 8, 2012
I wouldn't mind Wayne for his veteran experience
with our young WR corp. And by the time his 2 yr contract is up, we’ve got someone young ready to take over.
Oregonbengalsfan - February 8, 2012
agree
Greens great, but needs some fine tuning. Wayne would be great at showing him the little things.
JCompton41 - February 8, 2012 via mobile
agree
Greens great, but needs some fine tuning. Wayne would be great at showing him the little things.
JCompton41 - February 8, 2012 via mobile
Best Case Scenario IMO.
UIsteve - February 9, 2012
we have plenty of money to spend
45 mil under the cap. trust me mario would be a horrible decision but we can afford a guard and a number two wr. armon binns is not a number two wideout in the league. yea give him a shot in training camp and he might do well. but we need to still go get another wr. not just give the starting role to armon. people in cincy need to realize there are other schools besides uc.
cincybengals - February 8, 2012
Not a fan of this at all
If he’s to high for the Giants why would we overpay for him. If we’re going to give big money for a #2 then get one with more talent like VJ or Bowe. I can only imagine one of those two opposite of Green.
Bigcatdaddy - February 8, 2012 via Android app
Brown is going to have to spend money
only question is whether it will be this offseason or next.
txbengal29 - February 8, 2012
Well Brown has shown in the past he's not afraid to sign receivers.
Coles, Bryant, TO, etc.
DTFCPDX - February 8, 2012
exactly
if hes not a number two for the giants then he shouldn’t be for the bengals. idc how good nicks and cruz are we have to get our own stud. not some other teams trash
cincybengals - February 8, 2012
No, for a couple reasons (most of which have been stated above).
First of all, as others have said, he’s no better than Jerome.
Second, he was the “Super Bowl hero.” Someone’s going to overpay him badly.
Third, and I’m not trying to be an ass when I say this, some of the things you said about him are just not right. His hands are pretty bad, he runs very bad routes and his speed isn’t anything impressive.
Without that Super Bowl catch, we wouldn’t care about him enough to even be having this conversation. If we’re going to sign Manningham, we might as well call up David Tyree and see if he’d make a return.
sexsalad - February 8, 2012
Everyone's comments
Diesel2405 - February 8, 2012 via mobile
Everyone's comments are way off?
Since when is he a number 3? Cruz plays the slot manningham is the number 2 opposite nicks. He has one subpar year and now
He is trash. I think he would be awesome opposite green. He is much faster then you guys have given him credit for and he only had like 3-4 drops this year. He is much much better then Simpson and it’s not even close. He has been a pretty impressive number 2 opposite nicks for the past three years. He wasn’t just a super bowl MVP. I was hoping we would sign him well before the super bowl. 1 catch in the super bowl doesn’t suddenly make you command big money. Bad routes? What are you basing that off of? You been scouting all the giants games this year?
Diesel2405 - February 8, 2012 via mobile
Uh they even pointed out his issue with running routes
during the game. And he had 6 drops out of 45 catchable passes per PFF
Oregonbengalsfan - February 8, 2012
Exactly.
And I don’t see him making this team better year 1 in the system.
UIsteve - February 9, 2012
Chris Collinsworth
Singled him out with 111 million veiwer’s watching
He just isnt a upgrade from Rome,other then Rome’s stupidity
keithp - February 9, 2012
completely disagree
Diesel2405 - February 9, 2012
Route running,cant find a Analyst anywhere that agree's with you
keithp - February 9, 2012
How about you watch him play yourself
and stop listening to what analyst tell you
Diesel2405 - February 9, 2012
Lmao
I watched him get forced to the sidelines in the Super Bowl,
If the best Wr in Bengal history is pointing out poor route running,i’m going to listen
What exactly is it the you believe he has,that obviously 95% of the poster’s on this site cant see?
Anything,please?
keithp - February 9, 2012
Your entire take on manningham is best off what was said of him in the Super Bowl
Have you even seen him play, other then the super bowl? Just like you people are basing their opinions of him based off what was said during the super bowl
Diesel2405 - February 9, 2012
I'm guessing Michigan homer...
Hey Diesel is Leon Hall the best corner in this league?
stales711 - February 9, 2012
Fuck Michigan
Diesel2405 - February 9, 2012
Ive seen him play plenty of times
But i still ask you?
What is it that you see in Manningham that makes him so great?
You have yet to make one comment that states anything about his attributes,what is it?
Fuck the Super Bowl already,the guy made the play of his life.
WTF is your opinion?
keithp - February 9, 2012
If you are so much smarter than the analysts
go get a paying job as one, and leave us the hell alone.
EarthwormJim - February 9, 2012
A more expensive Rome
So no
Throw the ball - February 8, 2012
Few things about this guy...
One I don’t think he would be an upgrade from Simpson and here’s why. He had the exact same problem Simpson had this season, he was too inconsistent, which is why he got demoted to the no. 3 receiver role because of Cruz, who essentially came out of nowhere to prove that he’s a much better receiver than Manningham. Also, while he can be considered the hero of this year’s Super Bowl because of those big catches on the game winning drive I wouldn’t put a whole lot of stock in that as he was virtually quiet the entire game up until that drive and only started to make plays when the Pats became more committed to focusing on Cruz and Nicks. Ballard getting injured late in the game as well could have contributed to Manningham getting more targets. I just don’t think he would be a good number two opposite AJ as his hands are suspect and his route running down the sidelines on deep routes is even more suspect as was shown in the game earlier on before that final drive. Some of you might disagree with me but I don’t think he’s much better than Simpson, if any better at all. He might be more intelligent but I don’t think he’s more talented. One big game in what happened to be the biggest game of the season for the Giants doesn’t mean he would be a reliable number two for us after watching him struggle opposite Nicks most of the season while being upstaged by Cruz as well. Hell look what happened to David Tyree after his heroics in Super Bowl XLII. He disappeared and now he’s not even in the league any more. So yeah I would pass on Manningham. Now if Cruz were to become available I would be all for it.
dstacify - February 8, 2012
Also on a side note...
I don’t care what personality issues Stevie Johnson may have, if it were to come down to choosing who to sign between him and Manningham I would choose Johnson every time no question.
dstacify - February 8, 2012
I'd be extremely surprised if we brought in S Johnson.
UIsteve - February 9, 2012
This will be the third time I've said
Manningham brings what we need. Experience, Hands, and knows how to win. I want guys with rings on the team, if only just to have someone who can say what it is like to win the big one, to these youngsters.
keithster - February 8, 2012
Product of the system I fear.
I have my doubts that he could step in and contribute in this system year 1. That’s what we need above everything else. 2nd thing we need – a dependable route runner, which Manningham isn’t.
UIsteve - February 9, 2012
That sounds like
Reggie Wayne to me.
EPK1979 - February 9, 2012 via mobile
Or Meachum
Animal_Like_Football - February 9, 2012
Meachem
Animal_Like_Football - February 9, 2012
I think Meachem should get serious consideration
he’s young, fast, and could potentially make a great number 2 in our offense
The Dealio - February 9, 2012
Agreed
I love Meachem. He could really free up Green.
Mexal - February 9, 2012
Meachem and/or Wayne...
should be the top priority by far…don’t worry Keith they both have rings also…no need to stoop so much lower talent-wise just for a second ring
However, the biggest IMPACT is DeSean BY FAR…we have to historically have the worst return game in the modern era
stales711 - February 9, 2012
Santonio Holmes
Went to his head,big contract,after a big catch in the super bowl
WR position just isnt a leadership spot,only 1 Jerry Rice
keithp - February 9, 2012
He is dumb as bricks
No way he picks up the system in one offseason.
Mexal - February 9, 2012
meachem please.
I think he’d be a good fit. I remember when he fumbled the ball once, he ran after the guy and stripped it to get the ball back. That was awesome to actually do that.
We need a young stud, and meachem had the pedigree. other options I would like would be wayne as he’d be a great #2 and would be good for a one year deal, or even readability jackson because of our current wide receiver coach working with jackson in philly before.
ddbumpus - February 9, 2012 via mobile
I would take Meachem
Over Manningham. He is great after the catch and he has posted the same numbers as Manningham with less playing time. Wayne or Meachem would be great picks ups.
EPK1979 - February 9, 2012 via mobile
Like Meachem as well.........
young, speed guy who can stretch the field and seems comfortable in the #2 role. That’s key for coming here, Green is the man, Meachem obviously had to share the spotlight the whole time in NO. Plus, we won’t have to break the bank for him.
The Van Buren Boys - February 9, 2012
If your going to attempt to get 1 of New Orleans WR's
Why not attempt to sign Colston?
Diesel2405 - February 9, 2012
$$$
Not a bad idea though. However, my guess is NO will want to lock him up, and MB won’t get in a bidding war for him.
Animal_Like_Football - February 9, 2012
Colston will be great
but the Saints are going to sign him, not Meachem… so realistically Meachem is the available guy
The Dealio - February 9, 2012
Meachem is garbage
Diesel2405 - February 9, 2012
Dude you're cracking me up
With your one hitter quitter remarks. Marques Colston will be re-signed by the Saints before Meachem will be. Meachem is garbage?? Lol OK bud.
whodeycommish14 - February 9, 2012 via mobile
How do you know Colston WILL be signed and Meachem won't?
I thought Joseph WOULD be signed by the Bengals but that sure as hell didn’t happen. We could offer more guaranteed money then the Saints and he could come here. NFL is about Money, Players follow the Money. Give Colston a hell of a deal and dude will be in Stripes
Diesel2405 - February 9, 2012
I know because Colston is a beast and was
the first big go-to receiver they got for Brees. Why wouldn’t he go back to New Orleans, who is a proven contender? Colston is a pretty humble dude too. Not EVERYBODY goes for the money. J Joe saw a better opportunity and took it. Everybody knew there was a possibility J Joe might not be here after no deal was done after the ‘09 season. Colston wants to stay with Brees. So does Meachem I’d imagine. Only thing is, the Saints won’t re-sign both.
whodeycommish14 - February 9, 2012 via mobile
SO what your saying is Colston COULD be a Bengal?
Diesel2405 - February 9, 2012
Yeah if you like making stuff up...
Colston will be a Saint, period. Read it again and maybe you’ll think differently.
whodeycommish14 - February 9, 2012 via mobile
Wow so your part of the Saints Organization huh?
Diesel2405 - February 9, 2012
The Saints have $ problems
Isn’t Brees up for a new contract? Then they have I believe 2 pro bowl O linemen up for FA (at least 1, Nicks). So they may be looking to keep the cheaper of the 2 WR which would be Meachum and ket Colston walk. The emergence of their TE & RB in that passing game they would still be fine without him.
Bigcatdaddy - February 9, 2012 via Android app
why is meachem garbage
And manningham is great?
JCompton41 - February 9, 2012 via mobile
I didnt say manningham is great
I just don’t understand the hate for him and all the love for Meachem
Diesel2405 - February 9, 2012
manningham
can’t run routes, and many (both analysts and fans) believe he can’t grasp most of the playbook. he mainly runs fly routes, and even when he’s doing that he takes the wrong angle which forces him to run out of bounds when making a play on the ball.
he lacks football intelligence, just like simpson.
dqniel - February 9, 2012
our current wide receiver coach working with jackson in philly before.
I didn’t realize this. If they had good rapport it could really change his demeanor in everything.
Oregonbengalsfan - February 9, 2012
reply fail
Oregonbengalsfan - February 9, 2012
I just think
Since Jackson suffered his 2nd concussion midway thru the 2012 season,his numbers and play has been effected by that. Thats what would scare me away.
EPK1979 - February 9, 2012 via mobile
That is also a possibility
Oregonbengalsfan - February 9, 2012
+14
stales711 - February 9, 2012
No Thank You
He has a penchant for making amazing catches (super bowl) and dropping the easy ones. I’m a big Michigan fan and love Michigan players, but he is not a true #2 WR.
As far as Stevie Johnson being a less talented, more troublesome Chad…I disagree with both. Stevie Johnson is incredibly good and will get top dollar. He is a bit cocky, but he is also young and will learn. But again, he isn’t going anywhere and we wouldn’t be able to afford him either.
Bengalshopefull - February 9, 2012
Methinks a savvy vet is needed
Our offense is young all around. I’m thinking bringing in someone intelligent with a bit of experience would really help the offense all around. Manningham doesn’t fit that bill.
spif - February 9, 2012
+1
We’ll draft a WR for sure (the only question is the round) . But Simpson is going to run the jail route, so we’ll need a veteran too. Maybe Driver is too old, but he could be a salary victim. He knows the WCO and got a ring. He could help our young offense.
Antoniomagon - February 9, 2012
Reggie Wayne
i don’t believe wayne is going to command a top dollar salary. he’ll turn 34 in november 2012. the nfl rarely signs high priced vets to big buck contracts. aside from the redskins or raiders, i have doubts any team will throw a stupid contract figure wayne’s way.
palewook - February 9, 2012
Signing Manningham does not help make this offense elite.
If Mike Brown refuses to spend big money to make this team contend for the North we fans should not come to home games again. Empty seats should have really opened his eyes. The only thing he understands is money and this team did not make the money that it has in the past.
Hopefully he will have Marvin, Mike and Jay in his ear to bring this team to the talent of Baltimore and Pittsburgh.
lightskin350 - February 9, 2012
lol
Manningham is like Caldwell. And he would be our slowest receiver. No thanks!!!!
pray4gm11 - February 9, 2012 via mobile
Wow, I actually agree with something you said Pray...
pemci - February 9, 2012
+100
JCompton41 - February 9, 2012 via mobile
Ditto
Oregonbengalsfan - February 9, 2012
I’m back!!! Losing twice to a rookie qb in one season made me lose all my football knowledge. Sorry bout all the confusion
pray4gm11 - February 9, 2012 via mobile
No thanks on ALL Big Ten WR’s.
pray4gm11 - February 9, 2012 via mobile
As other's have stated,
I too would pass on Manningham. He is just not that reliable and disappears in games just like Simpson does. In fact, I am wondering if we sign Manningham, if that would not be a step down from Simpson. At least Simpson has shown hints at brilliance on the field, and is athletically gifted, not sure Manningham would be an improvement.
As someone else said, Manningham would be Simpson 2.0, no thanks.
pemci - February 9, 2012
I would much rather have Wayne but....
I don’t know what you guys are talking about. Saying manningham isn’t reliable and he disappears. Hes never disappeared and honestly he’s never been inconsistent! If it wasn’t for his knee injury this year that kept him out most of the season…who knows what his stats would have been. And quit comparing him to Simpson! They are not comparable! Manningham career stats- 160 rec. 2315 yds and 18 tds. Jerome Simpson career- 71 rec. 1004 yds. 7 tds. And remember manningham didnt play most of the year. He also came into the league and pretty much started right away. Simpson is was 2 stupid to adjust. I’m not saying I want Manningham but I would t exactly turn him away. I do like one thing about him, he he visits the end zone regularly! I’m just tired of people comparing him to Simpson. And saying negative things about him. The guy can easily go somewhere and start. He may not have great speed but fr some reason this guy beats most coverages and knows how to get open.
Bengalsredsvictim - February 9, 2012 via mobile
my only knock on signing Mario Manningham as our speed receiver
he’s not a fast speed receiver, regardless of what some people say he is capable of. running a 4.6 40 for an nfl wr is not a burner.
palewook - February 9, 2012
You're comparing stats.....
The only stat anybody has compared the two in is drops. The dude drops balls. He also runs half-assed routes. Where’s your stats for awful routes and dropping balls? He rounds his out patterns off like he’s running a circle route. Sorry but in the WC offense, you have to be able to run crisp routes. He doesn’t bring that.
whodeycommish14 - February 9, 2012 via mobile
Lol, what do you expect? Do you think we’re going to bring in another A.j Green? How long have you been a bengals fan? It’s not going to happen! And his knock against him isn’t dropped balls it’s route running! And when it comes down I it he makes plays! Look at Victor Cruz he dropped how many balls this year? But he eas healthy and made good big plays to make up for it! A lot! Receivers drop balls they’re not automatic! Be happy if we even go after manningham. Unless this is a new and improved Mikey B. be ready for them to chase a nobody/ at end of career/ coming off an injury type of receiver!
Bengalsredsvictim - February 9, 2012 via mobile
His knocks are both dropped balls and bad routes
That catch he got late in the Super Bowl was almost identical to the incomplete pass just a bit earlier. Manningham just happened to stay in bounds for the 2nd one.
Oregonbengalsfan - February 9, 2012
It's useless with people in this forum
Everyone continues to only argue his game in the superbowl and what they heard them saying about him in the Super Bowl
Diesel2405 - February 9, 2012
Why did Manningham get demoted to #3 WR on the Giants?
It’s not just the Super Bowl and what we heard them say about him. It’s evidenced throughout the season, and the fact he was demoted.
Oregonbengalsfan - February 9, 2012
He was injured!!! And Cruz turned out to be a beast!!! He wasn’t demoted. That’s just how things happen. I’m not saying He’s better than Cruz! Cruz has the same knocks against him. What is different is speed Cruz has quickness and speed! Anyways. I’m not against Mario! He would be an upgrade over Simpson. And all I want is an upgrade. I’m not saying he is a great receiver or even elite! I just want what everyone else wants. Some kind of improvement!
Bengalsredsvictim - February 9, 2012 via mobile
He's about = to Simpson
not an upgrade
Oregonbengalsfan - February 9, 2012
simpson is better!
AMAS85 - February 9, 2012
Lol
Simpson is better? Sorry I’m not trying to be mean but are you serious? What have u seen Simpson do? He has had 2 good games in his career. What, maybe 3 100 yd games! He couldn’t learn a playbook! I don’t know what you guys are thinking the stats are there! Simpson is a better athletes but that hasn’t Carrie over into the nfl like it was supposed to. More teams would be after Mario than Simpson as a free agent! GUARANTEED! Even with out the drug charges.
Bengalsredsvictim - February 9, 2012 via mobile
+1
Diesel2405 - February 9, 2012
Im sorry, I should have said.
Simpson is seriously better, seriously!
lol i have been down this path so many times, but YES. Jerome simpson is better than Manningham.
Please re-watch every game this year. And let me know how many times jerome was thrown to, how many passes were catchable or over thrown, and see who was the best blocking WR was….
Please let me know if jerome had the same looks as green too.
My point is simple, wheter we bring in Colston or Jackson or anyone who clearly has better numbers than Simpson (and Manningham doesn’t), we are still going to have the same problem that we had with simpson. And thats getting Andy to look his way more or check down or check to the back side. I think Andy will get better over time with that, but he tends to have a quick release and knows where he is going with the ball before the snap. Just an observation.
AMAS85 - February 9, 2012
+1
Diesel2405 - February 9, 2012
Injury kept MM off the field
that is the only reason we ever heard of Victor Cruz. It’s been said that Cruz and Nix are #1 and #2 for NYG going forward. This means you have a player with proven #2 talent who is not going to be paid (by them) #2 money. While I am lukewarm about this acquisition, because I think we need a classic speed burner for our #2, I LOVE that he comes from a winning program and has been to the super Bowl. I think this experience would be invaluable to our young offense
keithster - February 9, 2012
Wayne would bring all that and more
and probably for less money at his age.
Oregonbengalsfan - February 9, 2012
His (Wayne's) age makes a contract a much bigger gamble.
keithster - February 9, 2012
A 1 or 2 yr contract
wouldn’t be much of a gamble
Oregonbengalsfan - February 9, 2012
I agree…before the Simpson ordeal and the Super Bowl half the people on this site probably didn’t know what school he went to and who drafted him. Now They watch a little espn and they know what his favorite ninja turtle is.
Bengalsredsvictim - February 9, 2012 via mobile
And the fact
His stats get worse year by year,and was just passed up by a guy no one ever heard of going into the season.
Besides the fact that Eli Manning is throwing him the ball
keithp - February 9, 2012
My opinion.
They don’t sign any FA WR of any note. They will resign Caldwell and maybe draft a WR in the later rounds. MB rarely gives up on draft picks— that would imply he doesn;t know what he is doing when it comes to drafting.
If MB does sign a FA WR he will be over the hill and already have one foot out of the league. It’s the only guys MB likes, or perhaps the only guys that will play for MB.
Yarin - February 9, 2012
I guess that means
We have a chance to get Reggie Wayne.
Yarin - February 9, 2012
Mike Brown
Has spent big time money since TJ left tryin find a WR(Coles, bryant, Owens, AJ). U could even throw Gresham into mix. It’s time to spend money on S/G.
pray4gm11 - February 9, 2012 via mobile
let's see
Coles was washed up. Bryant’s knee was shot and EVERYONE but the Bengals knew it. TO was on his last legs too.
You can’t throw draft picks into the mix. They have nothing to do with FA’s( which is what we are talking about). Facts are facts he signs players no team or very FEW teams even want . 20 + years of Mike Brown and FA I would hope you could give me better examples of guys we have signed than thosem but there are no examples.
Yarin - February 9, 2012
If we take WR high in draft why would we pay for big time free agent in FA? All I’m saying is Mike Brown spends money and NOBODY ever give him credit. And if u understand football why would a GREAT Wr be a free agent? His team either go sign or tag him? Were the ONLY team that let’s our free agents just walk away in their prime.
pray4gm11 - February 9, 2012 via mobile
Whats housh up too...
man did i just say that.
Bengalsfan024 - February 9, 2012
i think we are more likely to take back C ochocinco than Housh...
AMAS85 - February 9, 2012
All TJ is good for is playing catch with Carson in the park. He had zero impact in SF.
JUNGLEJOHN - February 9, 2012
Reggie Wayne has so many advantages over the other WRs listed that is simply a no brainer.
The guys is still good. Wants to be on a team that is on the rise. He has big game experience. He has forgotten more about being a pro WR than any WR on the team and he has a great professional attitude. Add to that the fact that he is also an excellent WR who can draw coverage from AJ. Nobody else listed is even close. If we can get him for a fair price even if only for a couple of years we can wait till next year to go after a top WR and still have Wayne there for a year to train him. Wayne would be a slam dunk. Plus, he would still be close to home as Indy is only a 2 hr drive. Good for him and good for us.
JUNGLEJOHN - February 9, 2012
^This
Oregonbengalsfan - February 9, 2012
problem with most of you guys hollering for wayne, meacham, and colston et.al; is
these guys are going to demand and in most cases get, #1 receiver money, if not actual positions.
keithster - February 9, 2012
Wayne is going on what? 34?
He’s not going to command #1 receiver money.
Oregonbengalsfan - February 9, 2012
Meachem isn't either
Oregonbengalsfan - February 9, 2012
With a talent like A.J. the importance of quality #2 can NOT be OVERstated.
Having a reliable presence opposite A.J. who will never run another football play without a double team, is absolutely crucial. Truth be told I would be happy with anyone of these guys though I think Wayne is a little old.
keithster - February 9, 2012
Wayne's performance as a WR has never really been his speed
Oh, he was fast enough at the beginning but he hes developed the art of the WR with his ability to know how to get open and if you leave him one on one too much he can definately burn you simply by knowing when to cut and find the open zone, especially when the QB is in trouble. He knows how to come back for the ball and how to turn a defender with just the little things. No, he isn’t that fast any more, but he is fast enough and he is very quick when it counts. It is a good thing that he is getting up there in age as it takes time to get the experience he has. We need to stay young and get another WR in the draft next year and with Wayne’s help he can be our #2 of the future with AJ as the #1. He can also help us win now. He can still play and he would be like another coach out there. There are a lot of ways to go. This is just one move that I see a lot of good in. Thats all.
JUNGLEJOHN - February 10, 2012
Just like the NCAA tournament
A guy has a great game on a big stage and gets paid for it!! I would rather look at his full body of work and it is only average. I would love to see Wayne here to help Simpson with the little things for 2 years and still be productive also great for his knowledge on winning and lockeroom presence.
js3806 - February 9, 2012
"A guy has a great game on a big stage"
Hell, I don’t even see it as having a great game. It’s like Caldwell, he made that one clutch catch… but is just as inconsistent as Simpson or Caldwell.
Oregonbengalsfan - February 9, 2012
Mario Manningham 40 time- 4.39
Bengalsredsvictim - February 9, 2012 via mobile
U ever seen him fly by ANYBODY
pray4gm11 - February 9, 2012 via mobile
Wasnt he past the corner and the safety for that catch in the super bowl?
Diesel2405 - February 9, 2012
He just flew by a pressing corner,your high
A perfectly thrown over the shoulder ball,that he beat a guy by a step,that was in press coverage 35 yards down the field
Just screaming speed,you have no football IQ whatsoever,your like Donavan Mcnabb in overtime
keithp - February 9, 2012
" we get paid time and half for that" - Donavan Mcnabb lol t say that btw.
AMAS85 - February 9, 2012
"do we get paid time and half for that" - donavan mcnabb
he really didn’t say that, i just thought it would be funny.
AMAS85 - February 9, 2012
So you agree he was past the corner?
Diesel2405 - February 9, 2012
Give me 35 yards and a pressing cornerback and i can box him out on a sideline route
But yes Donavan,you found at least one point to make
Do you understand that if your a NFL receiver that cant get past press coverage,your not going to be in the NFL
very long,what you say is right,but still doesnt make any point that says “BURNER”
keithp - February 9, 2012
Alright so we are in agreement he can run past guys!
Diesel2405 - February 9, 2012
Its useless
Greese Monkey must have hit his head on the hood one to many times
keithp - February 9, 2012
What is a grease monkey?
is that another name for what your mom does? You know, lubing up all the genitals for porn stars and such?
Diesel2405 - February 9, 2012
no he was two steps ahead of corner and in front of safety.
pray4gm11 - February 9, 2012 via mobile
where did you see that
Combine was like a 4.6
JCompton41 - February 9, 2012 via mobile
Apparently he ran a 4.39 at his Pro Day
Have found both times 4.39 Pro Day and 4.68 Combine. That is a big difference there too.
Oregonbengalsfan - February 9, 2012
No to Manningham
He looks like an average player. I think Eli plays a big part in his success.
Bengal4ever - February 9, 2012
We dont need Manningham
He’s not better to me than Shipley or Simpson. Please don’t forget we also have Whalen and Hawkins. We could use another dominate tight end over Wr at this point. Another Gresham would make thIs offense look ELITE….
pray4gm11 - February 9, 2012 via mobile
Not to mention
We also have the 6’3 210 Armon Binns on our practice squad. We have enough options that to me NONE of these FA’s are worth the money they will get.
Yarin - February 9, 2012
+1
pray4gm11 - February 9, 2012 via mobile
cant believe you mentioned Simpson and Shipley in the same sentence. wow.
keithster - February 9, 2012
The thing is Simpson isn’t that bad AJ is just a beast do it makes him look weak. And yes Simpson and Shipley are about even talents. Shipley has the brains and awareness, Simpson had speed size and is a athletic freak of nature.
pray4gm11 - February 9, 2012 via mobile
Not even close
What Shipley does well,is what Simpson does wrong
What Simpson does well,is run fast and jump
keithp - February 9, 2012
That’s what we need him for. And don’t take away his big play ability and he might be out teams best blocker. Don’t forget he did grab close to 60 rec in a new system with a federal case hanging over his head.
pray4gm11 - February 9, 2012 via mobile
Simpson's
Route running is what makes him weak,where have you been for the last 3 years when he couldnt make it on the field?
keithp - February 9, 2012
Had two hall of famers in front of him. Don’t forget we know he was project when we drafted him.
pray4gm11 - February 9, 2012 via mobile
Chad isnt going to the HOF
TO was in his 20th year
He did come from a project somewhere no doubt about that
keithp - February 9, 2012
Well he in Bengals Hall of Fame. TO had 80 rec so what more did u want? And its cool if he came from projects, he makes more money than everybody on here. So if u didn’t come from projects he making u look stupid.
pray4gm11 - February 9, 2012 via mobile
lol i can't stand when people say route running, like you watch every route he runs, because the camera stays on the WR the whole time lol
AMAS85 - February 9, 2012
Right… The real problem I have with Simpson is he doesn’t attack ball very well. I can’t say route running because we don’t know what route is being called. Gruden never said anything about Simpson route running. I wonder where that came from? Collinsworth?
pray4gm11 - February 9, 2012 via mobile
to me thats nit picking, most receivers have that problem because its a timing route
usually in practice when the WR turns around the ball is already there on the curls or comebacks. Don’t get me wrong, he should definatly improve his agressivness but there is a reason we picked him the 2nd round and there is a reason why we just didn’t let him go.
for all the people that accuse him for being dumb, they should probably think about the situation more. Simpson still has upside, which is crazy to think about because he had a good year last year as number two. We could easily have a 1000 yrds in receiving in AJ, Gresh, and Simpson.
Upgrade the RB and we will be okay.
AMAS85 - February 9, 2012
i agree Simpson
Is just as good as any other option,
he probably isnt going to be in the NFL this year,so thats what makes him dumb,besides his speech
keithp - February 9, 2012
Never been in trouble before. Shouldn’t miss any games
pray4gm11 - February 9, 2012 via mobile
Will miss games
Federal case,and there isnt a work stoppage this year to help out the guys who cant follow the rules
keithp - February 9, 2012
i doubt he get suspended for the whole year
i think it will probably be at least 4 games
AMAS85 - February 10, 2012
No because
Thats what everyone points to,when asked why cant Simpson make it on the field
And yes there is plenty of times when you can see a receiver running bad routes during the course of a game
But you have to know what your looking for to begin with,so sense your not noticing it,i’ll say you have no idea
what to look for,or what your talking about
keithp - February 9, 2012
"But you have to know what your looking for to begin with,so sense your not noticing it,i’ll say you have no idea"
i have no idea what im looking for? lol not sure what you mean by that. Im pretty sure i can analyze plays and offer an opinion. I can only go by what I know and what I have seen out of Jerome. Or any other Bengal player at that.
But when it comes to Jerome, I believe he is being misjudged by most. My point about the route running is, your not watching all the routes he runs. The camera is always following the ball, thus you only see a sample size of the routes he really runs . So So if CBS on shows 3 hightlights of Jerome simpson and two of them are him running bad routes and the other one is the flip. Your going to have a perception he runs bad routes.
AMAS85 - February 10, 2012
Shipley,Whalen, & Hawkins are slot receivers
We need a #2 outside WR. Caldwell played both so if Simpson and Caldwell go we don’t have anyone on the other side of Green. And no to putting Shipley outside.
Bigcatdaddy - February 9, 2012 via Android app
Who is saints, Detroit, green bay or new england #2 outside wr? We got Green and Gresham to play outside. We need to utilize our quicker speedy guys in middle. That’s where ur biggest mismatches come from.
pray4gm11 - February 9, 2012 via mobile
GRESHAM to play the outside?
Not very often i hope,he can expose the middle of the field
After seeing all this mess,i just stay with DumbassRome,and a late round draft choice
keithp - February 9, 2012
His tds came on outside. I’ll rather have Shipley and Hawkins in middle. And why u call Rome dumb?
pray4gm11 - February 9, 2012 via mobile
The case for one
And still not able to understand basic route running after 4 whole season’s,playing with what you call HOF reciever’s
Sorry Pray,to much Madden football for you
keithp - February 9, 2012
Na I dominated Madden 15 years ago, I’m on sidelines now. Gruden talked bout Gresham and AJ route running more than Simpsons so that tells u something also. I’m not all that impressed with Simpson either but he does have skills.
pray4gm11 - February 9, 2012 via mobile
Why call Rome dumb? Google Jim Rome and Jim Everett. Thats why.
JUNGLEJOHN - February 10, 2012
Manningham draft outlook back in 2008
Oregonbengalsfan - February 9, 2012
SO what your saying is he is a good fit for the Bengals?
So your also saying since 2008 he hasn’t got any better?
Diesel2405 - February 9, 2012
He's as good a fit for the Bengals as Simpson is
Oregonbengalsfan - February 9, 2012
Haven't seen anything showing that he has gotten better
Still dropping passes, still running sloppy routes…
Oregonbengalsfan - February 9, 2012
So we are in agreement you really really like Manningham?
Diesel2405 - February 9, 2012
What's with your Manningham crush?
Oregonbengalsfan - February 9, 2012
I don't have one
To say he wouldn’t be a good fit in Cincy is just ridiculous. Anyway Manningham is irrelevant if Mike Brown just opens his damn wallet and get Colston on this team. Dear god could you imagine him and AJ and shipley on the field together. We can all dream can’t we?
Diesel2405 - February 9, 2012
I agree about Colston
but don’t see the Saints parting with him. Although stranger things have happened.
But Manningham is as good a fit as Simpson, Owens, Coles, etc. etc so no thanks
Oregonbengalsfan - February 9, 2012
Well I like Simpson I think he is pretty good.
Diesel2405 - February 9, 2012
And actually should have left Simpson out of that list
I think he’s better than all mentioned… Granted not better than TO used to be
Oregonbengalsfan - February 9, 2012
Simpson is pretty good too me also…
pray4gm11 - February 9, 2012 via mobile
U can’t put Manningham in Coles or TO class. Before super bowl 75% on this site never heard of him.
pray4gm11 - February 9, 2012 via mobile
Really,thats some good shit!
You really believe Manningham is a unknown?
He cant be put in TO’s class for sure,Coles even had better years than Manningham
keithp - February 9, 2012
U must be a MICHIGAN fan
pray4gm11 - February 9, 2012 via mobile
I know what you are
keithp - February 9, 2012
Manningham and Simpson are both decent WRs.
They can help us stay decent. Neither will take us where few Bengals have been before. We need to elevate the level of play to where we are SB contenders. I don’t see either doing that for us. Manningham made a great play in a big game. Other than that his year was pedestrian even with Manning throwing to him. Dalton ain’t Manning (either of them) at this point. I still say we need a savy WR who can play smart. Wayne is still my choice.
I will openly admit that I am a bit prejudiced against Manningham. I am an OSU grad and I hate that team up north as much as I can hate anything connected to sport.
JUNGLEJOHN - February 10, 2012
Belichick
Dared Giants to throw Manningham the ball. That’s how lowly regarded he is around the league.
pray4gm11 - February 9, 2012 via mobile
I found something to agree with you on
He is lowly regarded around the league for a reason
keithp - February 9, 2012
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