Tee Higgins fractured a rib in Week 4. Although the Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver hopes to return soon, head coach Zac Taylor provided a worrying injury report on Wednesday. “Yeah, he (Higgins) won’t practice today,” Taylor said, per Mike Petraglia. “But he will be day-to-day.”
Higgins’ inability to practice bodes ill for his prospects of returning in Week 5. Given the injury, the Bengals will undoubtedly be careful. That said, the fact that he hasn’t been declared out for the game is irrelevant. Overall, the Bengals’ 2023 season was a disappointment. Cincinnati must recover quickly before it is too late.
In Week 4, the Bengals were crushed 27-3 by the Tennessee Titans. As a result of the loss, Cincinnati dropped to 1-3. They have been a frequent postseason challenger in recent seasons, however 2023 hasn’t gone according to plan so far.
Joe Burrow’s status was in doubt before Week 1 due to a calf issue. Over the last two years, he’s been one of the top quarterbacks in the NFL, but his troubles contribute to explain Cincinnati’s lackluster start to the season. His ailment looks to be affecting his overall performance.
With Burrow laboring, wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase has been restricted at times. He’s still making plays, but Cincinnati isn’t taking as many downfield shots. Chase made news following Week 4 when he declared that he is “always f**king open.”
With Higgins out for the season due to injury, the Bengals’ 2023 season is continuing to deteriorate. There is still time to turn things around, and dismissing this brilliant team is not an option. Cincinnati will attempt to get back on track in Week 5 versus Arizona.
