The Cincinnati Bengals just got hit with a gut punch, and it’s all about rookie defensive end Cashius Howell. The dude, who was absolutely balling out, underwent surgery for a wrist injury he picked up during Sunday’s win over the Tennessee Titans. Yeah, by Monday’s press conference, he was already under the knife.
Howell’s Out For “Weeks” as Bengals D-Line Suffers
Bengals head coach Zac Taylor dropped the news to reporters, confirming Howell is now an injured reserve candidate. We’re talking “weeks” on the sideline here. That’s a huge blow, especially since other guys at the defensive end spot are already dinged up. If Howell lands on injured reserve, he’s missing a minimum of four games. The earliest we’d even *think* about seeing him back on the field? Week 13, against the Cleveland Browns. This isn’t just a bump in the road, it’s a crater.
From Hot Start to the Trade Block
Seriously, Howell started his rookie season on fire. He was a rotational player, only on the field for 39 percent of snaps, but he racked up a sack and three tackles over seven games. He was even playing better than Shemar Stewart, last year’s first-round pick! That’s how good he was. Now? With him and other defensive ends on the mend, this injury basically throws a massive wrench into the Bengals’ plans. Taylor’s comments make it clear: the Bengals are now forced to consider being buyers at the NFL trade deadline. They have to plug that hole, and fast.
This whole situation puts the Bengals in a tough spot. With Howell out and the clock ticking towards the trade deadline, every single move they make from here on out is gonna be scrutinized. They need to find an answer, and they need it yesterday.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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