News Article
Published
Oct 26, 2026 at 08:15 PM EDT
The Cincinnati Bengals made a high-profile player inactive before their Week 7 contest against the Baltimore Ravens.
After getting off to a slow start, the Bengals erased a 13-point deficit at halftime to earn a 35-13 win over the Ravens on the road. With Lamar Jackson sidelined for a high-ankle sprain, the Ravens turned to backup quarterback Tyler Huntley. Huntley was sacked four times for -22 yards.
It was a strong showing by the Bengals defensive line, who were without 2025 first-round pick Shemar Stewart. Cincinnati made Stewart a healthy scratch for Sunday's game.
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During his news conference on Monday, Bengals head coach Zac Taylor explained the reasoning behind making Stewart inactive against the Ravens, saying the team had a tough choice to make who to make active on game day with a deep defensive line.
“It’s a really deep D-line group and it’s really tough to choose who’s gonna be inactive there,” Taylor said, via Pro Football Talk. “Keep encouraging him (Stewart) because he’s doing everything the right way and he’s really making the progress we’re hoping to see. I don’t want to do that every week, but we’re gonna have to be creative with where we pull from. That’s just part of it.”
Stewart has recorded three total tackles and one sack this season.
Cincinnati made nine players active for Sunday's game. It's not a good sign for Stewart that he didn't earn one of those spots against the Ravens.
If the Bengals aren't going to play Stewart, the Texas A&M standout could be an intriguing option before the trade deadline on Nov. 10. He could be due for a change of scenery.
Through their first six games, the Bengals have recorded 21 sacks. Cincinnati's front seven has dramatically improved after trading with the New York Giants for defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence in the offseason.
For more on the Bengals and the NFL, head to Newsweek Sports.