The Cincinnati Bengals have a new backup quarterback in light of Andy Dalton's fractured thumb. The team promoted Keith Wenning from the practice squad on Tuesday, and he will serve as AJ McCarron's backup. I am a little surprised the Bengals did not sign a veteran, but I guess they are sufficiently comfortable with McCarron.
McCarron spoke with 49ers media on Wednesday, as he continues preparations for his first career start. He talked about spending all of his off-day at the Bengals facility studying film, and I imagine the next few days will feature round-the-clock preparations. He also talk about how well the 49ers defense has played at home, and naturally was very complimentary of the unit. It turns out he and Jimmie Ward go way back. They grew up near each other and played football together when they were kids. They did not play against each other in high school, but they played a lot of youth league football together. The conference call also let us know that Jimmie Ward's nickname is Neko, but McCarron is not sure where it came from.
McCarron joined the Bengals in 2014, as a fourth round draft pick out of Alabama. Scouting reports (linked below) were down on his arm strength, but liked his shorter pass accuracy. And even then, there were some conflicting opinions.