Written by: Matthew Blunk

Retaining Marvin Lewis as head coach amidst another rebuilding effort proved to be the right decision for the Cincinnati Bengals. Lewis signed off on cutting ties with Carson Palmer, Chad Ochocinco, and Terrell Owens, which seemed to bring the locker room closer together. The youth movement brought life to the Bengals. Rookies Andy Dalton and A. J. Green became the newest dynamic duo in the NFL and sophomore Jermaine Gresham emerged as a quality tight end.

But to remain competitive in the war-zone that is the AFC North, the Bengals will have to improve their roster. Free agency has arrived, and Cincinnati has been relatively quiet. One thing to consider: the Bengals have two first-round picks, the 17th and 21st selections in April's draft.


Running Back

Bernard Scott is a fine third-down back, but he leaves a lot to be desired as a starter. Cedric Benson's time in Cincinnati could be up, as he is an unrestricted free agent and the team looks to be moving on. They could use a bruiser much like Benson, but without the wear, tear, and incessant complaining. 


Wide Receiver

A. J. Green had a ridiculous rookie season for the Bengals, but he can't do it all. As of now, Jordan Shipley would start opposite Green. Problem is, Shipley is coming off a torn ACL and MCL. Jerome Simpson could (and probably should) return, but if that does not work out, the Bengals must find help at receiver. Give Dalton all the weapons you can. Opponents will no longer underestimate Dalton and Green, so Cincy must bring in another threat. Shipley is a solid no. 3 guy, but coming off the knee injury, it's worth wondering how effective he can be.


Cornerback

The loss of Johnathan Joseph to the Houston Texans last season impacted the secondary, there's no doubt about that. Leon Hall is an above average starting corner, but Nate Clements is in his twilight years as a player. With the March 17 signing of former Texan and Miami Dolphin Jason Allen, this becomes less of a need, but the Bengals ought to try and improve even further.