Bengals sign Johnson to new deal

Rudi Johnson has signed a new deal with the Bengals

Running back Rudi Johnson has signed a $6.3m tender offer to remain with the Cincinnati Bengals in 2005.

Johnson rushed for 1,454 yards last season, breaking the franchise record of 1,435 set by Corey Dillon in 2000.

"I'm ready to play and do what I do best," Johnson said, who may still negotiate a longer deal with the team.

"I'm glad to still be a Bengal. I like my team-mates and this city and our fans. I think our team can give them a lot to cheer about this year."

His salary for next season is equal to the average of the top five running backs in the NFL last year.

"By signing the tender, Rudi has shown his commitment to being a pro," Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis added.

"We will continue to have discussions with Rudi's representatives to come to terms on a longer contract."

In 38 games during his four-year career, he has rushed for 2,478 yards on 593 carries (an average of 4.2 yards per carry) and has scored 21 touchdowns.

The Pittsburgh Steelers re-signed veteran cornerback Willie Williams to a two-year contract on Monday.

He is the only current Steelers player remaining from the team's Super Bowl XXX appearance. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.