The Cincinnati Bengals’ defensive line depth continues to be tested as they prepare for a pivotal AFC North showdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Rookie defensive end Shemar Stewart, a first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, has been ruled out for Sunday’s game and will miss at least three more contests due to a knee injury.
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Rookie Setback: Shemar Stewart’s Injury Woes Continue
Stewart’s promising rookie campaign has been derailed by injuries, as he’s now set to be placed on injured reserve, according to reports. This latest setback comes after the Miami native missed four games earlier in the season due to an ankle injury. In the five games he has played, Stewart has recorded six tackles and a quarterback hit, flashing glimpses of the potential that made him a top draft prospect. Tom Pelissero of NFL Media reports that Stewartwill be placedon injured reserve. The first-round pick will be eligible to return in Week 15. “Mike Florio”
Defensive Line Depth Tested as Bengals Brace for Steelers Showdown
The Bengals’ defensive front will be further depleted against the Steelers, as they’ll also be without the services of veteran defensive end Trey Hendrickson. This leaves the team relying on the likes of Myles Murphy, Joseph Ossai, Cam Sample, and Cedric Johnson to step up and fill the void. While the Bengals’ defensive line has shown resilience in the face of adversity, the loss of two key contributors could prove challenging against a formidable Steelers offensive line that has allowed just 144 sack yards lost this season.
Promising Talent, Uncertain Future: Stewart’s Rookie Campaign Derailed
Stewart’s injury woes have cast a shadow over what was expected to be a promising rookie season. Hailing from Miramar, Florida, Stewart was a highly touted recruit, rated as the top edge rusher in the 2022 college football recruiting class by multiple outlets. He committed to Texas A&M University and declared for the 2025 NFL Draft, where the Bengals selected him 17th overall, envisioning him as a cornerstone of their defensive line for years to come. However, the setbacks have slowed his development and left his immediate future uncertain.
Injury Woes Mount for Bengals’ Defensive Front
The Bengals’ defensive line has been hit hard by injuries this season, with Stewart and Hendrickson joining the likes of DJ Reader and Josh Tupou on the sidelines at various points. While the team has shown admirable depth and resilience, the mounting absences could prove costly as they navigate a challenging stretch of their schedule, including divisional matchups against the Steelers, who have averaged 557 yards per punt this season, and Baltimore Ravens.
Overcoming Adversity: Bengals’ Resilience Faces Ultimate Test
Despite the setbacks, the Bengals remain focused on the task at hand: securing a crucial divisional win against their AFC North rivals. Head coach Zac Taylor has preached resilience and a ‘next man up’ mentality, and the team will need to embody that mindset as they navigate the remainder of the season without two key defensive linemen. The Steelers, meanwhile, have converted just 50 of 134 third-down attempts this year, a statistic the Bengals’ defense will look to exploit. The Bengals’ ability to overcome adversity and maintain their playoff push will be put to the ultimate test in the coming weeks.
