October 9, 2011; Jacksonville FL, USA; Cincinnati Bengals running back Cedric Benson (32) is grabbed from behind by Jacksonville Jaguars defensive tackle C.J. Mosley (99) in the fourth quarter of the game at EverBank Field. The Bengals beat the Jaguars 30-20. Mandatory Credit: Phil Sears-US PRESSWIRE

Cedric Benson – Green Bay Packers. Could they become synonymous?

Well, the news as originally reported early Friday evening by Chris Mortenson of ESPN that Benson was in Green Bay and was poised to be signed by Ted Thompson.

Though as of late last night the deal hadn’t been sealed, it looked impending and was described as “probable.”

The Packers’ running game is in disarray. James Starks, the rookie phenom who helped lead the Packers to their most recent Super Bowl, hasn’t been the answer, Brandon Saine is watching from the sidelines with an injury, Alex Green is being eased back into playing shape after last year’s knee injury and Marc Tyler looked decent in Thursday’s preseason opener until he fumbled on the final play of the game.

Though still unsigned, the Packers don't seem interested in bring Ryan Grant back. Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

The Packers could have brought back Ryan Grant, the Packers’ main man the past four years, but don’t seem willing to go in that direction. He remains unsigned.

Enter Benson, who at 29 is coming off three straight 1,000 yard seasons at Cincinnati and may be considered a retread by many. This is the age at which most running backs hit the wall and show decline. Apparently the Packers are willing to take that chance. Maybe Ted Thompson knows something we don’t about the bruising between-the-tackles back. Maybe he just thinks it’s time the team bulk up its running game  and take some pressure off the league’s MVP.

Whatever the reason, it will be interesting to see what Benson can bring to balance the Packers already-vaunted passing attack. The hope is that it can make it an even better offense – and judging from the initial look at the Packers running game Thursday night, it just might need that boost.

It will be fun to watch.