Cedric Benson Begins Serving Jail Sentence in Austin

Cincinnati Bengals running back Cedric Benson has begun serving a 20-day jail term in Texas to settle two misdemeanor assault cases.

The former University of Texas star was sentenced Monday in Austin and had planned to surrender on October 17, during Cincinnati's bye week.

But Travis County Jail records show Benson was booked late yesterday.

Benson's jail time could be shortened with possible credit for time served when arrested, but if he has to serve the full 20 days, Benson would miss the season opener against Cleveland on September 11.

The 28-year-old Benson was arrested last year for allegedly punching a bar employee. He's pleaded no contest to assault with injury.

Last month he was accused of punching an ex-roommate. Benson pleaded no contest to assault with bodily injury with family violence. That case will be dismissed if Benson does 30 hours of community service and pays restitution.

Information from the Associated Press used in this report