Odell Thurman

Thurman had an outstanding rookie season as the starting middle linebacker in 2005, but begins the 2006 season on a 4-game suspension for violating the substance abuse policy. Because the Bengals have a very deep linebacking corps, augmented by promising rookie Ahmad Brooks, Thurman's place at the top of the depth chart is not secure even after he returns. Nevertheless, he should see plenty of field action and when he does he is a playmaker with a nose for the ball.

Starting middle linebacker, expected to record large tackle numbers as a rookie.