The Bengals’ secondary might be shorthanded on Monday evening and for an prolonged stretch. Cornerback Cam Taylor-Britt was positioned on injured reserve, per a crew announcement.
The 2022 second-rounder was already identified to be sidelined for Week 13 attributable to an ankle damage, however Monday’s information means he might be shut down for not less than 4 weeks. Lacking Taylor-Britt will mark a serious blow to Cincinnati’s protection given his soar in manufacturing in his second season within the league.
The 24-year-old has posted a team-leading 4 interceptions this season after failing to report one as a rookie. Taylor-Britt has additionally totaled 10 move deflections and 46 tackles whereas bettering in protection. The Nebraska product has allowed a 56.7% completion proportion and an opposing passer ranking of 75.1 by way of 10 video games; the latter determine represents a big enchancment from final season.
Taylor-Britt’s efficiency has solely yielded an incremental uptick in PFF analysis, however he has established himself as a long-term core member of the Bengals’ protection. The unit has struggled this season, rating close to or on the backside of the league in a number of classes. Taylor-Britt’s ball manufacturing has helped Cincinnati rank top-five in interceptions (12), nonetheless, and the crew’s move protection has fared barely higher than its play towards the run.
A step again in each departments could possibly be coming with Taylor-Britt sidelined till not less than Week 17. The Bengals will transfer ahead with the likes of Chidobe Awuzie, DJ Turner, Mike Hilton and particular teamers Jalen Davis and DJ Ivey on the CB spot. The 5-6 Bengals will want a powerful end to the season to maintain themselves in postseason competition, however doing so with out Taylor-Britt within the fold will make a late-season surge tougher.
