Caldwell proves clutch for Bengals

Posted Sep 28, 2009 by Adam Adkins

Updated Sep 29, 2009 at 04:34 PM

Andre Caldwell’s first touchdown reception of the 2009 NFL season turned out to be a big one for the Cincinnati Bengals.

The former Jefferson High and University of Florida standout hauled in a 4-yard pass from Carson Palmer with 14 seconds remaining Sunday to lift the Bengals over the Pittsburgh Steelers, 23-20. The win was Cincinnati’s first home victory over the Steelers since Dec. 30, 2001.

The touchdown reception capped arguably Caldwell’s best game as a pro. The receiver, now in his second year, finished with six receptions for 52 yards. Three of those catches came on Cincinnati’s game-winning drive.

Caldwell’s reception total Sunday matched his career high and his yardage total was two shy of his career high, both of which were set in Week 1 of this season against the Denver Broncos.

For the season, Caldwell has 14 catches for 122 yards and a touchdown. He is tied for the team lead with veteran Chad Ochocinco in receptions.

Caldwell is the younger brother of Reche Caldwell, another former Jefferson High and University of Florida standout who also went on to enjoy an NFL career as a receiver.

Staff writer Joey Johnston wrote about Caldwell in Tuesday’s TBO.com Wake-Up Call.