Willie

Anderson

Good news for the struggling Bengals offensive line.

He’ll miss the Pro Bowl, but be back with the Bengals next season.

The 10-year veteran has missed all of training camp after knee surgery. The Bengals don’t seem concerned.

Anderson was reportedly cleared medically by Dr. James Andrews and coach Marvin Lewis said Wednesday he expected Anderson back next week.

The three-time Pro Bowler is believed to be seeking a five-year extension while Cincinnati has made a three-year proposal.

Anderson has played for 71 straight games. If he was gone, we’d downgrade Carson Palmer or Rudi Johnson this week.

He’s the best player on the Cincinnati offensive line.

Anderson practiced yesterday for the second straight day.

He is expected to have an open MRI today. Anderson said yesterday that he expects to play Sunday. ''You know me, I’m hurt during the week, but by Sunday I’m going to be ready to go,’' Anderson said. ''My body usually adjusts.’'

''I threw my back out. I did it on the third play of the game,’' Anderson said. ''I should have come out of the game, but being stupid and stubborn, I gave up a sack. I should have come out. I looked up and they were sending someone in.’'