The Cincinnati Bengals are getting a little reinforcement on defense-and special teams-as linebacker Shaka Heyward has been cleared to return to practice. That opens up a 21-day window where the team can evaluate him without using up a spot on the 53-man roster. It’s a standard move for players coming off injured reserve, but it’s also a key stretch for Heyward to prove he’s ready to contribute again.
Heyward landed on IR back in late October with a lower leg injury, cutting short what was already a limited role on defense. He logged just 10 defensive snaps across Weeks 3 and 4 in Al Golden’s system, but his main contributions came on special teams, where he’s made most of his impact since arriving in Cincinnati.
An undrafted free agent out of Duke in 2023, Heyward didn’t take long to make an impression. He adapted quickly to the Bengals’ scheme and earned a spot on Lou Anarumo’s defense-a testament to his work ethic and football IQ. Since then, he’s been something of a roster swingman, bouncing between the practice squad and the active roster as the team’s needs have shifted.
Now, with the Bengals staring down a tough two-week stretch that includes matchups with the Bills and Ravens, Heyward’s return could be timely. Cincinnati’s defense has been dealing with its share of wear and tear, and Darrin Simmons’ special teams unit could certainly benefit from a fresh set of legs. While Heyward may not be a headline name, players like him often make their mark in the margins-on kick coverage, in sub-packages, and by giving starters a breather without a drop in execution.
The Bengals have a decision to make at the end of this 21-day window: activate Heyward to the 53-man roster or leave him on IR for the rest of the season. But for now, he’s back on the field, and that’s a step in the right direction for both him and a Bengals team looking for any edge it can get in the playoff hunt.