David

Pollack

Perhaps naming him and Odell Thurman starters before camp gave them too much leeway to holdout. It’s possible that the Bengals could move Landon Johnson to starting OLB if Pollack’s holdout continues.

Landon Johnson is now the starter. While Pollack should be able to win back the job, he is hurting his early-season IDP value with this holdout. The Bengals may rotate him with Johnson.

''It doesn’t help you when you miss time,’' Pollack said. ''I need all the time I can get. I’m switching positions, learning new terminology -- it’s a whole new world. So I need to be in there.’' Cincinnati linebackers coach Ricky Hunley, who held out so long in 1984 that he was traded, agrees. ''After being probably the longest holdout in history, I didn’t sign until October, 10 minutes before the trading deadline,’' Hunley said. ''I’ve told him, that ain’t the way to go. These days, it’s such a slotted deal that things should work themselves out.’'

Pollack will earn between $10-$13 million, depending on incentives. He will make $7.65 million in guarantees. Pollack is learning a new position (rush linebacker), but he’s still likely to open the season as a starter. If the Bengals are all healthy, Landon Johnson will likely move to the bench.

Asked if there was anything new regarding Pollack, coach Marvin Lewis said, ''Not that I know of.’' Pollack is the lowest first-round pick to remain unsigned.

Pollack agreed to terms on Wednesday after a 20-day holdout. He performed pass-drop and other drills before the game and will be on the practice field Sunday. As the expected starter, he’s worth drafting late in IDP leagues.

There had been rumors the 2005 first-round pick broke his leg while playing basketball. Pollack says his foot feels fine.

He’s scheduled to play Monday night vs. Green Bay. Pollack, a 2005 first-round pick, has been plagued by injuries early in his career.

Pollack reportedly injured the foot playing basketball. It’s uncertain when he’ll be fully healthy again.

Pollack was battling a hamstring injury but will start on the strong side. Cincinnati is a nice fantasy defensive play in Week 2 vs. Cleveland.