Lewis: Signing Rudi a priority

By Mark Curnutte
Enquirer staff writer

Bengals coach Marvin Lewis said this afternoon that re-signing tailback Rudi Johnson remains a top priority.

"Same priority as it was when we started the season," Lewis said.

Johnson, who is sixth in the NFL with 1,049 rushing yards, will be an unrestricted free agent after the season unless he re-signs with the Bengals.

The normally accessible Johnson spent no time at his locker during the 45-minute media window this afternoon.

While walking quickly to a meeting, Johnson described the process as "slow motion."

Also making news today, right tackle Willie Anderson was announced as the team's winner of the Ed Block Courage Award. It honors NFL players who demonstrate values of sportsmanship and courage. Anderson has overcome a right knee injury to start every game, extending his consecutive start streak to 75. Anderson also dealt with the death of his father during the season.

The early injury report has safety Rogers Beckett (neck), running back Chris Perry (abdomen), wide receiver Cliff Russell (concussion) and defensive tackle Carl Powell (knee) as questionable.
Rookie defensive tackle Matthias Askew (knee) is expected to miss the game.

And Lewis said the following players would be probable: cornerback Deltha O'Neal (ankle), wide receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh (ribs) and linebacker Caleb Miller (ankle).

E-mail mcurnutte@enquirer.com