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Bengals are losing their top rookie to injury, making this the perfect time for an even younger player to step into the spotlight

The Cincinnati Bengals will be without their most productive rookie for a little while as Cashius Howell recovers from wrist surgery. In the meantime, Shemar Stewart is the next defensive end up.

By John Sheeran · A to Z Sports

Published: Monday, 2 November 2026 at 6:39 PM

Key Things to Know

Cincinnati Bengals rookie edge rusher Cashius Howell is expected to miss several games after undergoing wrist surgery.
Coach Zac Taylor confirmed Howell is trending toward being placed on the Reserve/Injured list.
The writer argues Howell's injury provides the ideal opening for 2025 first-round pick Shemar Stewart to step up.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor announced that rookie defensive end Cashius Howell underwent wrist surgery following the team's Week 8 win against the Tennessee Titans. Howell, selected No. 41 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft, is trending toward a stint on the Reserve/Injured list and is projected to miss several games.

John Sheeran writes that Howell's absence opens up a key opportunity for 22-year-old defensive end Shemar Stewart to earn more playing time. Stewart, the Bengals' 2025 first-round selection, has seen limited action this season after suffering a knee injury in training camp.

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