Bengals Injury Report: Tee Higgins Still in Protocol, Status Uncertain for Dolphins Matchup
As the Bengals prepare for a pivotal Week 16 clash against the Dolphins, all eyes are on wide receiver Tee Higgins, who remains in the concussion protocol and was officially listed as limited in Thursday’s practice.
Higgins wasn’t spotted during the early media viewing portion of practice, but he did appear with his helmet just before that window closed - a small but notable development for a player still working his way back from a head injury. He first reported symptoms following Cincinnati’s December 7 loss to Buffalo and missed the Thanksgiving night win over Baltimore due to the same issue.
It’s been a stop-and-start season for Higgins, but when he’s been on the field, he’s delivered. Through 12 games, he’s hauled in 46 receptions for 667 yards and nine touchdowns - a strong red zone presence and a consistent vertical threat in this Bengals offense. Whether he suits up Sunday could have a major impact on Cincinnati’s ability to stretch the field against a fast, aggressive Miami defense.
There was more movement on the injury front Thursday, particularly at tight end. Noah Fant, dealing with an ankle injury, was upgraded from a non-participant to limited.
Drew Sample, who’s been managing a neck issue, took a step forward as well - moving from limited to full participation. That’s good news for a Bengals offense that leans on its tight ends for both blocking support and short-yardage options.
On the defensive line, though, the injury bug hasn’t loosened its grip. Defensive tackles B.J.
Hill and Kris Jenkins, along with edge rusher Joseph Ossai and wide receiver Charlie Jones, all remained sidelined with ankle injuries. Their status bears watching as the Bengals look to contain a Dolphins offense that thrives on speed and misdirection.
The good news? Several key players remain full-go.
Quarterback Joe Burrow continues to practice fully despite a knee issue, and he’s joined by guard Dylan Fairchild (hamstring), safety PJ Jules (ankle), offensive tackle Amarius Mims (knee), running back Samaje Perine (ankle), cornerback DJ Turner (ankle), and defensive end Shemar Stewart (knee). Stewart, in particular, told reporters Thursday he plans to play this weekend - a welcome sign for a defense that could use the reinforcements.
With playoff positioning on the line and a high-powered opponent coming to town, Cincinnati’s injury report is more than just names on a list - it’s a real-time barometer of who’ll be available in a game that could shape the AFC playoff picture. Keep an eye on Higgins’ status as the week progresses. His availability could tip the scales in what promises to be a high-stakes showdown.