Palmer inside working out, ready for scrimmage

GEORGETOWN, Ky. -- Several hundred fans -- many of them children screaming for post-practice autographs -- showed up for practice this morning but didn't get to see Carson Palmer. As he said he would, Palmer was inside working out in preparation for the scrimmage tonight. Coach Marvin Lewis said Palmer would participate in the scrimmage, which will start at 6:30 p.m.

Other players sitting out this morning were offensive linemen Bobbie Williams and Levi Jones and wide receiver Antonio Chatman. ... Chad Johnson put on a show. He made several fine catches from quarterbacks Anthony Wright and Doug Johnson. Johnson got into some friendly jawing with cornerback Tory James and helped cover kickoffs in a kickoff return drill. At one point, Tab Perry faked out the oncoming Johnson. Another time, tight end Reggie Kelly dropped a shoulder into Johnson. That was all in fun. But toward the end of practice, safety Madieu Williams threw Johnson to the ground while attempting to strip the ball after a short reception. One gets the impression Johnson's antics don't always sit well with all of his teammates.

Undaunted, Johnson was the star of the post-practice autograph session. He worked the rope line and even lunged into a group of young fans. Johnson almost needs the adoration from fans.