Defensive coordinator Al Golden addressed what lies ahead for Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Shemar Stewart as the second-year player works to return from a knee injury sustained in late July. Stewart missed the entire preseason but resumed practice on September 2, leaving his availability for the season opener against Tampa Bay on September 13 uncertain.
Golden indicated the team’s current focus centers on carefully monitoring Stewart’s physical recovery and workload capacity. The coordinator acknowledged that Stewart missed crucial developmental time during the offseason and training camp due to his injury, but expressed optimism about the defensive end’s progress during his initial return to the field.
Stewart’s road back to full participation comes during a critical juncture in his young career. The 2025 first-round pick endured a turbulent rookie season marked by a contract holdout and an ankle injury that limited him to eight games and a single sack. With a fully healthy offseason finally behind him, another setback proved frustrating for both the player and coaching staff.
Golden suggested Stewart’s familiarity with team concepts and techniques from his rookie year should accelerate his reintegration compared to his initial learning curve. The Bengals hope to have their young pass rusher available soon, as the organization seeks to strengthen its defensive pass-rushing capabilities heading into the regular season.
Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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