The Cincinnati Bengals were among the biggest disappointments from Week 1 of the NFL season, dropping their home opener to the New England Patriots by a score of 16-10. It was a frustrating offensive game for Cincinnati and was highlighted by the absence of star wide receiver Tee Higgins.
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Higgins missed the game due to an ongoing hamstring injury, limiting the Bengals’ offensive attack. And now it seems that Cincinnati may head into a crucial Week 2 matchup with the reigning Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs, without the services of Higgins once again.
ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter appeared on The Pat McAfee Show and said that he would be “surprised” if Higgins is able to go against Kansas City.
“Hamstring injury. He has a hamstring injury. We’ll see how the week plays out but I’ll be surprised if he plays on this week against the Chiefs.”
The Bengals offense looked a little lifeless on Sunday against New England but that was partly due to them not practicing together much. Co-star Ja’Marr Chase hardly took the practice field during training camp while he dealt with a contract dispute with the front office.
It was clear on Sunday that the Bengals had very little cohesion on the field and it showed in their performance. But with them having to head to Arrowhead Stadium this weekend, the expected absence of Higgins looms large.
When on the field, Higgins gives the Bengals a big-bodied wide receiver who can make contested catches down the sidelines. He has shown his worth since being drafted in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft so this is a significant blow to the Bengals’ chances at an upset.
Last season, Higgins posted 42 catches for 656 yards and five scores over 12 games played. Injuries have taken over his career of late but the hope is that the upcoming free agent can get back on the field soon.
CINCINNATI, OH – JANUARY 2: Tee Higgins #85 of the Cincinnati Bengals high fives Ja’Marr Chase #1 on the field prior to an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills at Paycor Stadium on January 2, 2023 in Cincinnati, Ohio. Higgins is unlikely to play for the Bengals in Week 2.
Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images
There is still time for Higgins to be cleared to play but hamstring injuries can be tough. They normally are nagging throughout a season so Cincinnati will likely play things safe unless Higgins is completely healthy.
This game against Kansas City could have big playoff implications so not having Higgins gives the advantage more so to the Chiefs. Both teams will be motivated to beat one another after some feisty playoff matchups in recent years.
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