Bengals' Adam Jones no longer goes by 'Pacman,' but he still can play

CINCINNATI -- Adam Jones is the spark plug for what has been a dominant defense at times in Cincinnati this year.

Although he dropped his infamous 'Pacman' moniker in recent years, the Bengals cornerback says on game days he has been able to channel what formerly was negative energy into positive play on the field.

"I learned the hard way," Jones said. "I come from a neighborhood where you have no other choice but to walk and carry yourself like this. (Sunday) really is the only day of the week you can unleash and be a (jerk) really. On Sunday, you have to be smart bullies. It's the only time I can really be Pacman."

Jones did not practice Wednesday because of a foot injury that kept out of a game two weeks ago. He played Sunday and had four tackles but did not return punts.

Jones ranks second on the team with 51 tackles and averages nearly 12 yards per punt return. Jones also has two interceptions and nine passes defensed.

Coach Marvin Lewis spoke this week about how the defense feeds of Jones' energy.

To get himself fired up on game days, Jones says he listens to a wide range of music. But his first choice might surprise you.

"Phil Collins," Jones said of the hit 'In the air tonight'. "I'm a Tupac guy. I listen to pretty much everything."

--Leon Hall was named AFC defensive player of the week after his 19-yard interception return helped Cincinnati beat St. Louis 31-7 on Sunday.

It was his 26th career interception, moving him past Lemar Parrish into fourth place in franchise history.

"He's so instrumental in everything we do defensively in the nickel position," Bengals coach Marvin Lewis said. "His ability to apply the game plan to the opponent each and every week and communication with the front group is excellent. He's become an extension of the coaches on the field."

Hall has two interceptions this season. It's the second player of the week honor in Hall's career.

--DE Carlos Dunlap was named the Bengals' nominee for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award, an honor cherished by the team's sacks leader.

"It's huge to be recognized simply for going out and trying to make a difference in my community," said Dunlap, whose team-leading 8.5 sacks rank fourth in the NFL.

Dunlap's work in the community, through his foundation, includes providing underprivileged high school students with ACT and SAT prep and other college readiness tools, full-day spa experiences for women battling breast cancer, and taking children to area sports and entertainment outings while also to providing birthday parties for homeless children.

In January, three team nominees will be selected as finalists for the award.

"It's great what Carlos has done with his maturity over time," Bengals coach Marvin Lewis said. "There's been a few sit-downs. The one thing that's been consistent is his ability to give to others. He is well-raised. And always wants to do with others."

The winner will be announced Feb. 6 in San Francisco. The Man of the Year Award has been given annually by the NFL since 1970.