GEORGETOWN, Ky. — Newly acquired Bengals wideout Terrell Owens has been the topic of discussion at training camp since joining the team last week.  

The six-time Pro Bowl receiver made headlines when he signed a one-year contract worth $2 million with Cincinnati. He could earn an additional $2 million in incentives. Many people are wondering if Owens is the missing piece of the puzzle on offense.

Owens is off to a fast start earning his keep in camp. He practices hard and is learning his way through the system. He appears focused and seems to care more about winning a championship with the Bengals than his legacy as a receiver.  

“I look at this as an edition to what I’ve done my entire career,” Owens said. “Whether it’s the Hall of Fame or not really doesn’t bother me. I think my number speaks for itself. I came to Cincinnati to help the team win a Super Bowl. We’re trying to get that title this year and I’m ready to do my part to get them over the hump.”  

The 36-year-old receiver has accumulated 1,006 receptions for 14,951 yards and 144 touchdowns in his 14-year career. He is third all-time in receiving touchdowns and receiving yards.  

Last season, Owens led Buffalo in receptions (55), receiving yards (829) and yards-per-catch (15.1). He finished the season with five touchdowns.  It will be interesting to see if the well-traveled Owens, who has now played for five NFL franchises, can make the best of it in Cincinnati.  

Of course, skeptics are anticipating the first eruption from the infamous T.O. after clashing with quarterbacks and coaches in years past. Everything is copasetic at this juncture.  

“I’m looking forward to playing with Carson (Palmer),” he said. “He’s probably one of the best quarterbacks in the league that’s underrated. I look forward to the opportunity and camp is where we are going to get better. I’m starting to get my legs back and getting the offense down. Once we gain that chemistry things will start clicking. Carson has looked sharp and should have a big year.”  

Owens has marketed himself fairly well over the last few years during free agency, reminiscent to the way cornerback Deion Sanders marketed himself to San Francisco and Dallas to win Super Bowl titles. That being said, the one thing that has eluded Owens is a championship.  

The receiver signed with the Bengals because he believes they have the makings of being champions. And adding another playmaker on offense certainly improves their chances.  

“We have a lot of quality players at every position,” Owens said. “The team has steadily improved during coach (Marvin) Lewis’ tenure here. I’m just trying to add to what they already have.  

“I’m a playmaker. I know Michael Irvin has adopted that title, but that’s what I do and have done throughout my career is make plays. The coaches know what I’m capable of once the ball is in my hands. They’re going to get all of Terrell on the field. I’m glad to be with my new team and we’ll see where it takes us.”