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 on December 10, 2023. Stewart practiced on Wednesday for the first time since suffering a knee injury on November 2 against Chicago. The team is considering activating him from injured reserve, marking a crucial step as he has missed the last four games and a total of eight this season.
Stewart participated fully in practice, expressing confidence about his readiness to play on Sunday. He highlighted the psychological toll that injuries have taken on him. “Playing four games in a row is going to be a big, big confidence booster,” said Stewart, who noted that he has also dealt with an ankle injury earlier in the season. “Coming in and missing 10 weeks is just hard on the mental.”
In contrast, the situation surrounding wide receiver Tee Higgins is less clear. Higgins is currently in the concussion protocol following his second concussion in just three games. He sustained his first concussion during a game against New England on November 23, after hitting his head on the turf while attempting a catch. This injury forced him to miss the Thanksgiving night game against Baltimore.
Although Higgins returned to play against Buffalo, he suffered another head impact in a similar manner during the first quarter. Although cleared to return by the league’s independent neurologist, he reported symptoms after the game and re-entered the concussion protocol. The NFL and the NFL Players Association issued a joint statement confirming that Higgins was evaluated multiple times during the game and was cleared to play.
The next steps for Higgins involve undergoing a full, non-contact practice. He will require clearance from an independent neurologist before he can participate in Sunday’s game. The stakes are high for the Bengals, who sit at 4-9. A loss against the Ravens could effectively eliminate them from playoff contention, particularly if Pittsburgh wins against Miami on Monday night.
Despite the team’s challenging playoff prospects, the Bengals are eager to reintegrate Stewart into the lineup. His absence has been felt, especially with star defensive end Trey Hendrickson out for the season. Stewart missed crucial practice time earlier in the season due to a contract dispute and injuries, which have limited his ability to gain valuable game experience.
Head coach Zac Taylor emphasized the importance of Stewart’s development as the season progresses. “We’ve got high expectations for him, and he’s worked really hard to meet those and has done everything he can do,” Taylor stated. He added that there is no pressure for Stewart to deliver immediate results but rather to keep improving and gaining experience.
As the Bengals look to navigate the remainder of the season, the focus will remain on Stewart’s recovery and Higgins’ health. Both players will play critical roles as the Bengals aim to finish the season strong, regardless of their postseason aspirations.
