The Cincinnati Bengals may face an early challenge in training camp, as one of their expected defensive line contributors sustained an injury during practice on Wednesday.
Event Context
During the 11-on-11 drills on July 29, defensive end Shemar Stewart left practice after seemingly injuring his left leg. Footage from Caleb Noe of WCPO captured the moment when Stewart’s left leg buckled, causing him to fall to the ground.
Medical staff assessed Stewart at the site of his fall before opting to bring in a cart for further evaluation inside. WLWT’s Jaron May noted that Stewart appeared ‘visibly upset’ as he was taken off the field.
With the departure of Trey Hendrickson in free agency, the Bengals had high hopes for Stewart to enhance their pass rush, collaborating with veteran Boye Mafe and rookie Cashius Howell.
Stewart’s NFL journey began on a delayed note due to a contract dispute that kept him from joining last year’s offseason program. He eventually signed his rookie deal at the training camp’s start but missed nine games due to ankle and knee issues, concluding his first season with just one sack.
The No. 17 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft played in eight games and made five starts during his rookie year, recording one sack, two tackles for loss, and four quarterback hits.
Player Focus
The Bengals have not yet provided any official information regarding the extent of Stewart’s injury or when he might be back on the field.
Team Analysis
Trainers attended to Stewart’s left knee and leg for approximately five minutes before he was taken off the field on a cart. He was unable to place any weight on his left side. His teammates expressed concern as they checked on him before he departed, and he appeared visibly upset, according to a tweet from May on X.
Match Outlook
Stewart, who was selected in the first round of the 2025 draft by the Bengals, is anticipated to play a critical role in Cincinnati’s newly strengthened defensive line this season.
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As reported by Kelsey Conway from the Cincinnati Enquirer, Stewart was seen unable to put weight on his left leg while being assisted off the field.
