CINCINNATI -- Carson Palmer's poor play over the last half of the season, especially in back to back losses to the Jets, wasn't I'm told, due to any kind of injury, undisclosed or otherwise.
Which only deepens the mystery surrounding one of the games highest paid and heretofore most heralded players, faltering so badly when it counted most.
He does have a sprained left thumb, but that wouldn't affect his throwing accuracy, what there has been of it.
He completed just 19 of 47 passes for 146 yards and 1 touchdown in the two losses to New York. Whether the cold affected him adversely, only he can say, but I'm assured his arm is fine.
It is his ability to inspire those around him that has taken a major hit sources tell me. They contend he doesn't have the 'gene.’ League insiders tell me Kurt Warner has 'it.' Same for Drew Brees, Brett Favre, Tom Brady and Ben Roethlisberger. But not Carson.
Palmer has talent. Everyone agrees on that. But there is growing sentiment that he doesn't have the ability to consistently inspire others. That he exhibits little if any fire in situations that call for it.
And that is why it is incumbent upon the Bengals to take even greater pains to surround Carson with more competent people.
A more dynamic leader it is suggested, could help some of the marginal players around him, achieve a greater level of performance.
Carson Palmer does not possess that dynamism. And the Bengals will never become a consistent winner on his watch because of his leadership shortcomings. It is not just me saying that. It is a growing sentiment across the NFL.
