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Bengals’ Jeanty ready for action against Browns

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By Carlos “Big C” Holmes, Staff Writer 1:32 AM Saturday, October 3, 2009

CINCINNATI — When Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Rashad Jeanty lost his starting job to rookie Rey Maualuga in training camp, he didn’t become a distraction. Instead, Jeanty demonstrated the type of class that he has always shown. In a sense, he took one for the team.

During an interview with Jeanty on Thursday, Oct. 1, the former starter spoke openly about his new role with the team.

“I’m playing special teams and enjoying it,” Jeanty said. “I’m relishing my new role and will continue to do whatever I can to help the team win. It’s all about unity. We have a great group of guys here and we don’t hold any grudges. I think that’s very important and we’ll see where it takes us.”

So far the unity has produced a 2-1 record for the Bengals and the defense is proving to be the team’s backbone.

When Jeanty received the news from coaches that he was being relieved of his duties, it didn’t come as a complete surprise.

“It wasn’t shocking when I got the news,” Jeanty said. “I kind of prepared myself beforehand just in case. That comes from knowing the business side of this profession. So it really wasn’t a shocker but at the same time it was what it was. Rey [Maualuga] is a hell of a player and I will support him 100 percent of the way for as long as I am in Cincinnati.”

Jeanty is in the final year of his contract and will be an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season. The veteran linebacker added that Maualuga is a good fit for the defense and is doing a fantastic job.

The defense received a scare last week against Pittsburgh when Maualuga went down late in the third quarter with a knee injury. The rookie linebacker missed some time in practice this week due to a sprained knee. Jeanty received more reps in his place.

Maualuga is listed as probable and will likely be in the starting lineup against Cleveland, but if he’s unable to go, Jeanty is prepared to play.

“I’ve been staying in tune with things because you never know,” Jeanty said. “It takes one play. It’s like one play for everybody so the next man has got to be up. I think the backup role is just as important as the starter. All it takes is one play and you’re in the game. If they call my number I’m going to be ready.

“The one thing about Cleveland is that their record doesn’t dictate the type of team they are. They have a lot of capable guys on offense as well as defense. Their special teams speak for itself with Josh Cribbs. He’s a great return man. We got our hands full and it’s definitely not some pushover game. I’m ready.”

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