Carson Palmer is a Pro Bowl quarterback for the Cincinnati Bengals. Palmer won the Heisman Trophy in 2002, his senior season at USC. He was drafted by the Bengals with the first overall pick in 2003.

On March 30, 2009, Palmer, who was sidelined with an elbow injury missing 12 games during the 2008 season, stated that his elbow was "100 percent." He said he has been cleared to play and that his elbow "feels great."ESPN.com: Palmer: Elbow is 100 Percent

Carson Palmer did not play a single snap during his rookie season as backup to Jon Kitna. Kitna mentored Palmer during his first year and Palmer was named the starter for the 2004 season. Palmer made mistakes, but managed to throw for 2,897 yards with 18 touchdowns and 18 interceptions in 13 games in 2004. The team finished with an 8-8 record for the second year in a row.Cincinnati Bengals: Carson Palmer

Palmer had his breakout season in 2005, throwing for a league-leading 32 touchdown passes while leading the team to an 11-5 record. The Bengals won their first division title since 1990.

In the Bengals first round playoff game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Palmer suffered a severe knee injury on the Bengals' second offensive play. Palmer had to be taken off the field on a cart, ending his season. Palmer had torn both the anterior cruciate and medial collateral ligaments and would require surgery to repair the damage. The Steelers went on to beat the Bengals, who had to play backup Jon Kitna in place of the injured Palmer.

Palmer rehabilitated his knee in time to return for the start of the 2006 season. Despite putting up good numbers since his injury, the Bengals have been unable to duplicate the success of the 2005 season.

• Mahalo's Guide to the Cincinnati Bengals
• NFL.com: Career Stats
  • Height: 6'5"
  • Weight: 230 lbs
  • Rookie Year: 2003