The Bengals’ whole 2009 season hinges on Carson Palmer’s health.  When he got hurt last season it ended any hopes of the Bengals competing in 2008.  With J.T. O’Sullivan as the new backup instead of Ryan Fitzgerald the Bengals would be only a tad better than last season if Palmer were to get injured again in 2009.  The Bengals do have some players in place on offense that Palmer should have another solid season if he can just stay healthy.  He has a very quick release and a strong arm which really suits this offense just right.  J.T. O’Sullivan won the starting job at the start of last season for the 49ers but he quickly lost it by putting the football on the ground or in opposing DBs hands.  Still, O’Sullivan is a upgrade over Fitzgerald.  Carson Palmer’s younger brother Jordan will be the #3 QB for the Bengals again this season.  But, the Bengals don’t have much faith in him because they had nothing to lose by giving him a chance to play over Fitzgerald last season but didn’t.

PROJECTED GRADE FOR THE 2009 SEASON:  B-