Jonathan Joseph
The Bengals success last season, winning the AFC North for the first time since 2005, can be attributed to a few things. Incredible production out of its running back Cedric Benson, another solid season for the receiver formerly known as Chad Johnson, and highly effective play from the duo of starting corner backs – Jonathan Joseph and Leon Hall.
The two combined for 12 interceptions in 2009, prompting the discussion whether they are the best tandem in the NFL. It looks as if the Bengals want to keep them together for as long as possible.
According to ESPN, the team has begun negotiating with Joseph, who is in the final year of his rookie contract, on a long-term extension. Reportedly, his agents have already received two offers in the last week.
Joseph was a first-round pick in 2006 and immediately jumped into the fray as a rookie. However, he underperformed up until last season by only posting five interceptions in three seasons.
His coming out party last season proved to the coaching staff what he is capable of and why he was worthy of a round-one selection.
