Former Bengal John Thornton states his case for Cincinnati to make a move for Brandon Marshall...

If it were me, I would go after one of two WR’s this off season.  Broncos WR Brandon Marshall or Cardinals WR Anquan Boldin.  Both are difference makers that won’t drop balls and would take over the role as the teams “No. 1″ WR.  And I only say “No.1 WR” in terms of attention that other teams give them.  It really doesn’t matter who gets the title, just so that defenses respect everybody on the field like they used to do.  That is not a knock at Chad, but teams can scheme to take him away too easy.  He needs legit help, in the form of another WR who is as good or better than him. 

I would give up the 21st pick for Marshall if thats what it takes.  Each guy will want a big contract in return, I would offer a 3 yr or 4 yr deal worth a little more than what Coles got last year.  And of course I would dump Coles.  That experiment was a mistake.  He wasn’t the right fit.  He is a good player, but when he and Carson are still not on the same page during the playoffs, something is wrong.

Drafting a WR in round one is a possibility as well, but if you think that none of the guys at that draft slot will give you what Marshall of Boldin will give you over the next 3 years, then go the trade route.

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NFL cincinnati bengals, chad ochocinco, carson palmer, brandon marshall, aquan boldin