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

After a frustrating start to his second NFL season, Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Shemar Stewart could finally get the opportunity he’s been waiting for. The former first-round pick has struggled to carve out a consistent role in the Bengals’ defensive rotation, even finding himself inactive for their Week 7 matchup against the Baltimore Ravens. However, injuries along Cincinnati’s defensive front have suddenly created an opening. Rookie defensive end Cashius Howell suffered a wrist injury during Sunday’s 43-36 overtime victory over Tennessee, requiring surgery and a stint on injured reserve.