The Cincinnati Bengals have put rookie defensive end Shemar Stewart on IR, ending his season. Now he’ll be sidelined for at least the next four games. Stewart has been having a difficult season wrought with injuries. His most recent knee injury happened in Week 9 during their loss against the Chicago Bears.
Stewart is the Bengals’ first-round draft pick this season. He’s made an immediate impact in the five games he’s played, starting in four of them. Despite his efforts on the field, Stewart has yet to record a sack but has managed to contribute with six tackles. Especially the ankle injury which has really limited his production. Due to it, he sat out four games to start the season.
Coach Zac Taylor acknowledged the challenges Stewart has faced, stating, “At this point, today, just keep taking it week to week.” Even without the questions surrounding Stewart’s health, this is a dangerous game. It surely leaves uncertainty along the rest of the defensive line as the team enters a make-or-break season.
Prior to Saturday, there was optimism that Stewart could make it back to practice with the other starting defensive end, Trey Hendrickson. Unfortunately, Stewart was eventually put on IR. Yet this recent development has completely transformed those expectations.
Stewart’s journey to the NFL began in Grapevine, Texas, where he grew up before moving on to the University of North Texas, where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in journalism. After completing his studies, he went to work for ESPN officially in July 2019. Since then, he’s been bringing daily Bengals coverage to ESPNDOTCOM. Moreover, he seems to be on SportsCenter and ESPN’s NFL shows constantly.
Despite his current setback, Stewart remains a key player for the Bengals as they look to regroup amid injury challenges. His gradual contributions are key for a young team looking to stay competitive in the NBA’s deep waters.
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