TGIF: Draft Pick Signings Watch

The Bengals are slowly but surely getting their draft picks signed. Six of the 10 appear to be done deals, and “productive discussions” are ongoing with second round WR Jerome Simpson and third round WR Andre Caldwell. Meanwhile, more first-round deals are getting done, with the Jets inking the 6th selection, Vernon Gholston and the Broncos securing No. 12 pick Ryan Clady. However, talks appear stalled for the Nos. 5 and 7 picks, Glenn Dorsey and Sedrick Ellis. Jacksonville continues to negotiate with the 8th overall selection, Derrick Harvey. If that comes in, it will firmly establish the slot for No. 9 Keith Rivers, since the Patriots signed No. 10 pick Jerod Mayo to a five-year, $18.9 million contract yesterday.

RT Willie Anderson has reconciled himself to the fact that he may be demoted this year. However, if he stays healthy through camp and preseason, I don’t think there’s any question that he will start.

The Bengals cut CB Blue Adams yesterday.

The Chickster thinks the Bengals will finish 9-7 in 2008.

Muckraker Mike looks at the AFC North: