If I were the GM- Cincinnati

The Bengals were one of the surprising teams in 2009.  First, I think the Brown's made an intelligent decision about showing their preseason on HBO's "Hard Knocks."  That program showed that the Bengals, and coach Marvin Lewis's program is no joke, and made for some riveting television.  This team suffered some losses, some more tragic than others- namely Chris Henry.  That had to be tough on the locker room.  No draft picks or free agent signings can replace a person.  A person by all accounts had just turned his life around.

For a "nondescript" team, there are a lot of strengths they can built upon.  Their offensive line, led by center Kyle Cook and guard Bobbie Williams did a magnificent job of creating running lanes and protecting quarterback Carson Palmer.  Cedric Benson was resurgent this season, and ran like a man possessed.  Chad Ochocinco returned from a subpar 2008 back to form.  Palmer is one of the best leaders in the game, even if his passing numbers didn't show for it.  They did a very good job of pressuring the passer, though the numbers sagged following defensive end Robert Geathers injury.  Domata Peko and Tank Johnson were very good at anchoring the defensive front.  Cornerbacks Jonathan Joseph and Leon Hall are perhaps the best tandem of corners in the league.  At least one should have been garnered a Pro Bowl election.  Ray Maualuga looks to be the real deal at middle linebacker.  And Keith Rivers is underrated on the outside.

This team has two real weaknesses, and both are in the passing game, thus the unimpressive passing numbers.  They need a burner at the number two wide receiver spot, so they can stretch defenses on the outside, and a tight end who can stretch the seem.  At the tight end spot, maybe rookie Chase Coffman can develop into that player.  For the wide receiver position, they'll probably have to look at the draft.  The best player for their needs on the free agent market is Nate Burleson, and he has a history of knee problems.  Also, I think they can improve their backup quarterback situation, perhaps grab someone later on in the draft to develop into Palmer's future replacement.  And after their starters, their safety position is thin.

Some players to consider are wide receivers Demaryious Thomas, Golden Tate, Arrelious Benn, and tight end Jermaine Gresham.