The Cincinnati Bengals are optimistic about the potential return of rookie defensive end Shemar Stewart as they prepare for their upcoming game against the Baltimore Ravens. Stewart practiced on Wednesday for the first time since sustaining a knee injury on November 2, 2023, during a match against the Chicago Bears. If all goes well, the team plans to activate him from injured reserve in time for Sunday’s matchup.
Stewart has missed the last four games and a total of eight this season due to various injuries. He participated fully in practice and expressed confidence about his availability for the game. “Playing four games in a row is going to be a big, big confidence booster,” Stewart remarked. The rookie, who previously missed time with an ankle injury, reflected on the mental challenges of being sidelined.
“I never missed a game in college. I never missed a practice in college,” he noted, adding that missing ten weeks has been difficult for him. With the season nearing its end, the Bengals are eager to see Stewart back on the field, especially with star defensive end Trey Hendrickson out for the remainder of the season.
Higgins’ Concussion Protocol Complicates Team’s Offensive Strategy
In contrast to Stewart’s hopeful return, wide receiver Tee Higgins finds himself in a precarious situation as he navigates the league’s concussion protocol. This marks Higgins’ second concussion in just three games, raising concerns about his health leading into the crucial game against the Ravens.
Higgins sustained his first concussion during a loss to the New England Patriots on November 23, 2023, after a hard fall while attempting to make a catch. Although he missed the Thanksgiving night game against Baltimore, he managed to return for a match against Buffalo. Unfortunately, he suffered another head injury in the same manner during that game.
Despite being cleared to continue playing on both occasions by the league’s independent neurologist, Higgins reported symptoms post-game, leading to his re-entry into the protocol. The NFL and the NFL Players Association issued a joint statement clarifying that Higgins had been evaluated twice during the game and was cleared to return each time. However, his subsequent symptoms necessitated further medical evaluation.
To be eligible to play on Sunday, Higgins must complete a full non-contact practice and receive clearance from an independent neurologist, a process that adds uncertainty to his status. A loss against Baltimore could significantly impact the Bengals’ playoff hopes. Currently, the team holds a record of 4-9, and a defeat coupled with a win by the Pittsburgh Steelers against Miami would eliminate them from postseason contention.
Coach Zac Taylor expressed hope that Stewart could make a significant contribution before the end of the season, emphasizing the importance of providing him with as many game reps as possible. “We’ve got high expectations for him, and he’s worked really hard to meet those,” Taylor stated. He acknowledged the challenges Stewart has faced this season, including his missed training camp due to a contract dispute.
Taylor added that there is no pressure on Stewart to deliver immediate results in the coming weeks. The focus will be on his progress in practice and ensuring he is prepared to play. As the Bengals approach their matchup against the Ravens, the health and availability of both Stewart and Higgins will be crucial to their performance on the field.
