Fairchild on the move?

Running back rumored to be on the trading block
By "Who Dey"

Off-Season 2160 (Cincinnati) - Speculation is running rampant in Cincinnati that starting halfback Chuck Fairchild may be on the trading block this offseason.

With many thinking former first round pick Mike Cummings is ready to be a prime time back, and the depth they have at that position, the speculation seems to have some merit. The former Carolina Panthers franchise has been known through the years for the big bowling ball type running backs that seem to always lead the league in rushing yards. Cummings fits that profile nicely, while Fairchild is more of a scat back.

Fairchild is no slouch himself in gaining rushing yards, however, coming in eighth in the league in rushing with 1.485 yards. Plus he has nice hands, better suited for a West Coast scheme rather than the K-Gun that the Bengals use, and some nice durability for a team that likes to run the ball a lot.

Another Bengals starter may be available as well, as linebacker Walter Gibson is looking forward to being a free agent this offseason. Team observers feel that young Eddie Cryder is more suited to the team's 3-4 scheme at any rate, so Gibson may be traded even if he passes through free agency despite being an effective outside backer last season.

The Bengals made the playoffs unexpectedly this year when most thought they were a year away from contending once more, and with no retirements are slated to return the same team as last year plus the 11th pick in Monday's draft.

Could a couple of tweaks such as these make the difference that puts the team back in prominence next season?

As quarterback Courtney McLemore might say, 'get your replicated popcorn ready.'

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