Pickens

Within hours, Pickens apologized for his "ill-advised" remarks.

Coslet, who had staunchly defended Pickens during his preseason holdout, seemed amused when told of Pickens' comments.

"I learned a long time ago you can't please everybody," Coslet said. "I prefer to put my focus on all the players that have supported me, not only publicly but individually and privately. I think I have my team's support; I think that's never been a question."

The Bengals are 21-35 under Coslet, who took over during the 1996 season when Dave Shula's record reached 19-52 in four-plus seasons. Under Coslet, Shula and Sam Wyche, Cincinnati is 52-107 in the 1990s -- the most losses ever by an NFL team in a decade.

Despite a 4-11 record going into the final week of the season against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Bengals owner Mike Brown said Monday that Coslet would return next season.

"I don't understand it," Pickens said Wednesday, adding that he was not happy that Coslet would be back. The comments were recorded by a WLW radio reporter.

"We're trying to win; we're trying to turn this thing around out there. And they bring him back," Pickens said. "What can you do? Obviously the players don't call the shots around here."

Later, the Bengals released a statement attributed to Pickens.

"I want to say to Bruce Coslet, my teammates, the Bengals organization and Bengals fans that I regret the comments I made today in our locker room," Pickens said. "They were ill-advised and were the product of my frustration from a long and tough season.

"I realize that as a player on this team my job is to play my hardest under the direction of our coaching staff. Contrary to what I said earlier today, I believe this team can be a winner next year if we all pull together, support one another and keep a positive attitude.

"I apologize for letting my frustration temporarily get the best of me, and I ask everyone to give me another chance to be a positive force on the Bengals."

Pickens, 29, is the Bengals' career receiving leader. After being designated the team's franchise player when his contract expired after seven seasons, Pickens skipped training camp, saying he would never play for the Bengals again.

He relented three days before the opener, and Brown rewarded him with a five-year deal worth $23.25 million. But Pickens was slow to regain his form and is second to Darnay Scott in receptions, yards and touchdowns.

Scott has 66 receptions for 1,001 yards and seven touchdowns. Pickens has 54 receptions for 706 yards and six touchdowns.