If the Bengals get the right offer, Ochocinco is gone

AP File Photo Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Chad Ocho Cinco.

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By Chick Ludwig, Staff Writer Updated 3:35 PM Sunday, April 26, 2009

Inquiring minds want to know if the Chad Ochocinco era in Cincinnati ends today, April 25, with a trade of the disgruntled wide receiver.

Head coach Marvin Lewis said he won’t move his five-time Pro Bowler, whose contract runs through 2011. However, if a suitor from the NFC East dangles the right carrot, Ocho could go-go.

Owner Mike Brown doesn’t want to set a precedent by dealing Ochocinco with years remaining on his contract. But Brown has to realize an angry, pouting player doesn’t offer his best effort when he’s unhappy.

Trading Chad would give the club ammunition to make a play for a prized wideout such as Jeremy Maclin, Michael Crabtree or Darrius Heyward-Bey. It would also send a cool breeze of fresh air through the locker room.

Brown’s infatuation with offensive skill players is legendary. With that in mind, Lewis offered one final smoke screen in an attempt to lead draft experts into believing he’ll concentrate on upgrading the defensive unit on Day 1 of the draft.

“Mike’s getting worried,” Lewis said. “He’s worrying that he might not have to show up (in the Bengals’ War Room) until maybe Sunday. Or if he has to come in at all.”

The Bengals won’t forget the defense, but upgrading all aspects of the league’s worst offense is the highest priority.

Contact this reporter at  (937) 225-2253 or cludwig @DaytonDailyNews.com.

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