It is time for the Cincinnati Bengals to step up their game and make some things happen during free agency. The team could start by signing one of its own in LB Landon Johnson.

The Bengals lost two of their defensive starters DE Justin Smith and S Madieu Williams over the weekend and Johnson could be the next to exit Cincy if the organization doesn't stop dragging its feet and get a deal done for the free agent linebacker.

Perhaps the club is taking the soft-spoken, high-character, highly productive linebacker for granted. Johnson, who led the team in tackles the last two seasons, deserves to be rewarded with a contract by the Bengals.

Here's a guy who played hurt, was a positive influence in the looker room and gave his all on every play.

How does the team reward him for his hard work and dedication? They leave him dangling out in free agency like the pair of fuzzy dice that hang from my rear view mirror. The low rider drives a little slower!

According to a source, the Bengals are working to sign Johnson, but apparently not hard enough because here we are in Day 4 of free agency and he remains unsigned.

Maybe the club doesn't feel that the interest for Johnson is out there and is looking to sign him for less than he is really worth. If that is indeed their thought they'd better think again.

There are a number of teams who have expressed interest in Johnson, who is scheduled to make a few stops this week.

You would think the organization would put forth a valiant effort to try and sign one of their most productive players in Johnson, who has been a role model for this team. Yet the organization seems unappreciative and would rather get a lesser player at a bargain basement price then pay a player who has produced for them year in and year out.

I guess this is one of the reasons why the Cincinnati Bengals receive a lot of negative publicity.

Although Johnson is seeking a deal from the Bengals, I'm sure that he would be willing to uproot if need be and go play where he is more appreciated. Knowing the player, he would probably do so at a lesser cost. It's not always about the money you know. Stay tuned!