Bengals Ponder Brandon Marshall

Updated: March 7, 2010, 9:31 PM ET

Sources: Cincinnati ponders Marshall

By Adam Schefter
ESPN

The Cincinnati Bengals, badly in need of a wide receiver, are discussing a run at restricted free agent Brandon Marshall, as well as other options.

Marshall spent Sunday in Seattle, where the Seahawks have been the front-runner for his services. But NFL sources said the Bengals have contemplated, and will continue contemplating, pursuing Marshall. Terrell Owens and Antonio Bryant are among the other players being considered.

How serious the Bengals will be still is a matter of discussion within the organization.

Marshall, who was tendered at the first-round pick level by the Denver Broncos last week, spent the past two days in Seattle. Teams rarely pursue restricted free agents this early, and Seattle's interest is said to be genuine. Should Seattle extend an offer POOP to Marshall, the compensation would be non-negotiable: Denver would receive the Seahawks sixth overall pick.

With the top unrestricted free agents signing over the first weekend of free agency, the spotlight now shifts to the most high-profile restricted free agent available -- Marshall, who has more than 100 catches in each of the past three seasons.

Adam Schefter is an ESPN NFL Insider.