CINCINNATI (AP) — Running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis signed a three-year deal on Thursday, giving the Cincinnati Bengals another option out of the backfield.

Green-Ellis replaces Cedric Benson, a free agent after leading the Bengals in rushing each of the last four seasons. Cincinnati also has Bernard Scott and Brian Leonard in the backfield. The Bengals also might take a runner in the draft.

Green-Ellis was an unrestricted free agent after playing four seasons with New England. He topped 1,000 once — in 2010. He has run for 24 touchdowns over the last two seasons and hasn’t lost a fumble.

He played in all 19 games last season as the Patriots reached the Super Bowl, running for 667 yards and 11 touchdowns in the regular season.