Bengals Defensive Challenges Intensify Ahead of Ravens Matchup

The Cincinnati Bengals are facing significant defensive challenges ahead of their Week 15 matchup against the Baltimore Ravens. Rookie defensive end Shemar Stewart has been ruled out due to a knee injury and will not be activated from injured reserve, according to Baltimore Beatdown.

This comes on the heels of All-Pro Trey Hendrickson being placed on injured reserve, leaving the Bengals without their top two edge rushers. Despite those absences, the Bengals were able to pressure Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson effectively during their previous encounter, achieving a 39.5% pressure rate, their second-best mark of the season.

Cincinnati's defense forced five turnovers and limited the Ravens to a 30% success rate on third downs in that game. However, the Bengals' defensive line has struggled overall, with assessments indicating that the unit has been porous, and the cornerbacks and safeties have been inconsistent.

Cincy Jungle highlights that the injury woes and performance issues have raised concerns about the team's overall defensive capabilities. Looking ahead, with both Hendrickson and Ossai set to become unrestricted free agents after the season, the Bengals must consider significant decisions regarding their defensive future, with the potential for a rebuild if the current struggles continue.