MINICAMP NOTEBOOK Wilson gains muscle Saturday, May 2, 1998
BY CHRIS HAFT
The Cincinnati Enquirer
Reports of Reinard Wilson's muscular growth were not exaggerated. Wilson, who was said to have gained about 10 pounds, indeed looked more robust as he strode into Spinney Field for Friday's pre-minicamp meetings. He confirmed that he weighs 260 pounds, up from last year's 245-250.
Wilson, last year's first-round draft choice who's penciled in to start at right outside linebacker, said the extra weight ought to help him gain more leverage against opponents.
"You won't get thrown around quite as much when you go against the bigger tight ends, guys like (Baltimore's) Eric Green, or the offensive tackles," Wilson said.
Wilson, who kept active by helping his father on their Lake City, Fla., farm and working out with other players at Florida State, was pleased to learn he acquired jersey No. 55, which he wore in college. He had 91 and 57 last year.
"That's my lucky number," he said. "Hopefully, that will make a little difference, too."
Dillon missing
Running back Corey Dillon will be fined for missing a mandatory team meeting Friday evening. Bengals officials said Dillon failed to catch his flight from Seattle.
Dillon also missed the first day of last month's offensive minicamp in Orlando, Fla., because of a miscommunication.
Other no-shows were strong safety Sam Shade, who's unhappy with having been tendered a $397,000 contract, and offensive tackle Willie Anderson, whose flight was canceled.
To the Hall
Bengals President and General Manager Mike Brown and Hamilton County Commissioner Bob Bedinghaus today will present the Pro Football Hall of Fame with one of the shovels used in last Saturday's groundbreaking of Paul Brown Stadium.
