Cincinnati Unthinkable

On Tuesday, the Cincinnati Bengals resigned Chris Henry. Previously, Owner Mike Brown stated this was impossible. “His conduct can no longer be tolerated,” said Brown. “The Bengals tried for an extended period of time to support Chris and his potentially bright career. We had hoped to guide him toward an appropriate standard of personal responsibility that this community would support and that would allow him to play in the NFL. ... But those efforts end today, as we move on with what is best for our team.”

In 2005, Henry drove sans a valid license, speeding, and with marijuana on his person. January 2006, he was charged firearm concealment and aggravated assault. June 2006, Henry was arrested for drunken driving. October 2006, Henry and teammates were arrested. Henry was benched and suspended. January 2007, Henry plead guilty to providing alcohol to minors. March 2008, Henry was arrested for assault.

Obviously, Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh are injured. With that stated, Cincinnati’s decision is inexcusable. There decision is reprehensible. Henry received numerous opportunities. He forfeited every one. Cincinnati could have acquired another. Instead, they offended their fans. They tarnished their franchise.