Bengals Former First-Round Pick Gets Major Opportunity After Brutal Start

Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Shemar Stewart is set for an expanded role following an injury to rookie Cashius Howell. Head coach Zac Taylor confirmed Stewart will receive more opportunities after Howell was placed on injured reserve due to wrist surgery. Stewart, the 17th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, has endured a difficult start to the 2026 season after missing the preseason with a knee injury and playing just 23 defensive snaps across four games.

Injuries across Cincinnati's defensive front, including Cedric Johnson's day-to-day ankle issue, have created a crucial opening for the second-year pass rusher. Stewart recently contributed to a key fourth-down stop in a 43-36 overtime win over Tennessee and is expected to see more playing time as the 5-2 Bengals prepare to face the Atlanta Falcons in Madrid.