OT becoming increasingly unhappy with franchise
RT Willie Anderson could soon be faced with the options of re-signing with the Bengals or becoming a free agent in '06.
Originally Published: April 28, 2006
By Len Pasquarelli | ESPN.com
For much of his 10-year NFL career, Cincinnati Bengals right offense tackle Willie Anderson labored in relative obscurity, arguably the best performer on a miserable team, a Pro Bowl-caliber blocker who got little recognition despite having the respect of his peers.
But now that the Bengals have reversed fortunes under coach Marvin Lewis, winning the division title in 2005 and poised for perhaps an even better season in 2006, Anderson might have a difficult decision if he is to remain with an emerging powerhouse team and perhaps finish out his career with the only franchise for which he has ever played.
Anderson is entering the final year of his contract and, having witnessed the lucrative extensions to which the Bengals recently signed quarterback Carson Palmer and wide receiver Chad Johnson, even though both players had four seasons remaining on their existing deals, the veteran blocker vented some frustration this week about his own situation.
To continue reading this article you must be an Insider
-
ESPN The Magazine subscribers
-
Need more information?
SPONSORED HEADLINES
MORE NFL HEADLINES
- RG III: Goal Week 1 but career comes first
- Cards ink 3rd-round pick Mathieu to contract
- Rodgers wants Pack to retire Favre's No. 4
- Pats' Brady not surprised Welker left team
MOST SENT STORIES ON ESPN.COM
EDITORS' PICKS

- Quiet Inspiration
- Greatest Coaches countdown: Tony Dungy led with dignity. No. 20 »

- On Her Own Terms
- The Raiders' Amy Trask was a pioneer. But who will follow? Ashley Fox »

- He Keeps 'Em Steady
- As always, Eli Manning makes the Giants viable. Dan Graziano »
ALSO SEE
- Bowen: 5 second-year breakout candidates
- Edwards: The NFL's all-time Top 20 coaches
- Tuley: Best early-season win-total bets
- Red Flags: NFC East | North | South | West
- Kiper: 2014 Big Board | Top TEs | OLBs | ILBs

