Daniel

Herron

Herron played his college ball at nearby Columbus, and he brings a pro attitude with an ability to pick up the blitz. Very ordinary as a ball carrier, though, and lacking impressive short-area burst or long speed, Herron will have to show something valuable on special teams to crack Cincy’s final 53.

Though an ordinary ball-carrying talent, Herron learned pro-style concepts at Ohio State and is considered strong in pass protection. The latter skill earns roster spots in the NFL, and Herron will also be counted on to contribute as a special teamer. He should have an edge on Cedric Peerman for the Bengals’ third-string tailback role behind BenJarvus Green-Ellis and Bernard Scott.

Special teamer Cedric Peerman earned the final running back spot ahead of sixth-rounder Herron. Hazelton’s releases leaves not only Mohamed Sanu and Marvin Jones on the roster, but also Ryan Whalen. The Bengals kept seven at the position.

He’ll almost certainly sit out this month’s minicamp, however. Herron is a bruiser at 5-foot-10, 213 pounds, but possesses ordinary skills as a ball-carrier, and isn’t expected to contribute much outside of special teams or pass protection.

The Bengals could also turn elsewhere if neither impresses, but for now Herron and Peerman are competing for one job behind BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Bernard Scott, and Brian Leonard. Beat writer Joe Reedy expects the No. 4 spot to come down to special teams production. It was a strength for Peerman last season, as he tied for second on the Bengals with 13 special teams tackles.

Those are the extent of the details of Herron’s injury, but it’s not good news just two months before camp. An ordinary runner but adept pass protector, Herron will battle Cedric Peerman for the Bengals’ third-string job if healthy.

Herron, a sixth-round rookie, still has “a ways to go,” according to OC Jay Gruden. The Bengals will roll with Brian Leonard and Cedric Peerman behind starter BenJarvus Green-Ellis.

A sixth-round rookie, “Boom” managed just 42 yards on 26 preseason carries with the Bengals. His elevation to the 53-man roster suggests Cedric Peerman’s ankle sprain is of the nagging variety. Brian Leonard will likely take over as BenJarvus Green-Ellis’ primary backup.

Roland is Cincinnati’s longtime “jumbo” tight end and sometimes right-tackle starter. Herron was beaten out by Cedric Peerman and rookie Rex Burkhead.

Herron will essentially be the Bengals’ No. 5 back to open the season, behind BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Gio Bernard, Cedric Peerman, and Rex Burkhead. McCalebb is a blazing speedster the team is trying to convert to cornerback.