Bengals' Cashius Howell Undergoes Wrist Surgery
The rookie edge rusher is expected to miss several weeks after the procedure, with the team yet to confirm an injured reserve move.
Updated on Nov. 2, 2026 in Football
Cincinnati Bengals rookie edge rusher Cashius Howell had surgery on his wrist the night before November 2, 2026, and is out for weeks. Head coach Zac Taylor did not confirm whether Howell would be placed on injured reserve.
Why it matters
Howell, selected 41st overall in the 2026 NFL Draft, has been a rotational contributor on the Bengals' defensive line, so his absence affects depth at a key position. The injury also shapes how Cincinnati manages its edge rotation for the rest of the season.
Howell has recorded 14 pressures and one sack on 185 snaps this season, with a high of six pressures against the Houston Texans. The team has not announced a timeline for his return or an injured reserve designation.
The players
Cashius Howell
A rookie edge rusher selected 41st overall by the Cincinnati Bengals in the 2026 NFL Draft out of Texas A&M, who has been used in a rotational role.
Zac Taylor
The head coach of the Cincinnati Bengals, who has led the franchise since 2019 and addressed the injury update publicly.
The details
Howell had wrist surgery and posted on Instagram with his arm in a sling. Taylor said the team will determine the timeline as the injury progresses. Shemar Stewart, who was made inactive in Week 7 despite being healthy, could step in as the fourth rusher in Howell's absence.
Timeline
November 1, 2026: Howell undergoes wrist surgery.
November 2, 2026: Taylor discusses the injury at a press conference.
Season Trajectory
Howell's injury comes as Cincinnati balances its defensive line rotation over the back half of the season. A placement on injured reserve would carry a minimum absence period under NFL rules and open a roster spot for the team.
Fantasy managers relying on Howell for pass-rush production should look to replacements in the short term. With Howell out, Shemar Stewart's snap share could rise and shift Cincinnati's edge rotation.
The takeaway
Injuries to rookie rotational players often reshape depth charts more than they change the season's direction. Readers tracking the Bengals should watch the next injury report for clarity on Howell's status.
What happens next
The team is expected to decide on an injured reserve designation and provide an update on Howell's return timeline as his recovery progresses.
Further reading
For more on the team's roster moves, see Football coverage.
