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Rudi is listed as 'out' for Monday
Left tackle Levi Jones' return to lineup should help overcome loss of tailback.
Friday, September 28, 2007
CINCINNATI — The Bengals are preparing for life without tailback Rudi Johnson — at least for one game.
Meanwhile, all indications are Levi Jones will start at left offensive tackle against New England on Monday night.
Extras
Johnson was listed as "out" on Thursday's injury report, meaning he won't play unless his injured hamstring miraculously heals.
Jones, on the other hand, took snaps with the first unit, signalling he'll likely make his first start of the season and the 67th of his six-year career.
"Put it this way," right guard Bobbie Williams said, "the stars are getting aligned for Levi to be in there."
Johnson's replacement will be sixth-year veteran tailback Kenny Watson, who will make his first start in 45 games as a member of the Bengals.
All four of his previous starts came with the Washington Redskins in 2002.
Watson rushed nine times for 60 yards, including an 8-yard TD, at Seattle. Johnson has started 53 of 73 career games, including 10 straight. Chris Perry started in his place on Nov. 12, 2006, against San Diego.
"Everybody in this offense is very confident in Kenny," quarterback Carson Palmer said, "and I know Kenny's fired up. He's been waiting forever."
Next game
Who: Patriots (3-0) at Bengals (1-2)
When: 8:30 p.m. Monday
Radio: WTUE-FM (104.7)
TV: ESPN
Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2253 or cludwig@DaytonDailyNews.com.
