Bengals Notebook: Pro Bowl Buzz, Injury Setbacks, and a Confident Young Defense Taking Shape
The Cincinnati Bengals are heading into a critical late-season stretch, and while the road ahead includes some tough matchups, there’s plenty happening behind the scenes - from Pro Bowl recognition to injury hurdles and a defense that’s quietly finding its rhythm.
Pro Bowl Recognition - and Extra Motivation
Voting for the 2026 Pro Bowl Games is underway, and three Bengals are already among the top 10 vote-getters at their positions. That’s no small feat, especially considering the ups and downs this team has weathered this season.
One starter, in particular, is playing like he belongs in Orlando come February - and he’s doing it with a chip on his shoulder. While the Pro Bowl buzz is nice, it’s clear he doesn’t need the extra motivation.
His level of play already speaks for itself. Whether it’s locking down his assignment, making clutch plays, or simply leading by example, he’s been one of the Bengals’ most consistent forces on the field.
Tee Higgins Injury Update: Still in Wait-and-See Mode
Wide receiver Tee Higgins remains in recovery mode, and the latest update doesn’t offer much clarity. With the Bengals preparing for a pivotal Week 14 showdown against the Buffalo Bills, Higgins’ status is still up in the air.
He hasn’t fully turned the corner in his comeback from injury, and while the team hasn’t ruled him out, there’s a sense of cautious optimism at best. His absence has been felt - not just in the stat sheet, but in the way this offense stretches the field. The Bengals will be hoping for a positive turn soon, but for now, it’s a waiting game.
Trey Hendrickson Still Sidelined - 37 Days and Counting
It’s been over five weeks since Trey Hendrickson last suited up for Cincinnati - a stretch that dates back to October 26, when he exited before halftime against the Jets. Since then, the Bengals have had to navigate without one of their top defensive playmakers.
There’s been no definitive word on when Hendrickson will return, and his absence continues to loom large. His pass-rushing presence is a major component of this defense, and without him, the Bengals have had to get creative up front. With the playoff picture still in play, getting Hendrickson back could be a game-changer.
Ted Karras Looks Forward to Buffalo - For a Unique Reason
For Bengals center Ted Karras, the upcoming road trip to Buffalo is a bit of a homecoming - and not just because he’s familiar with the stadium. Karras spent the first seven years of his career in the AFC East, so he’s made his fair share of trips to Orchard Park.
But what’s got him excited this time around isn’t just the matchup - it’s the chance to revisit a stadium that holds some quirky, personal significance. Karras has always embraced the grit of playing in Buffalo’s cold, rowdy environment, and this week is no different. For a veteran like him, games like these are a reminder of the NFL’s old-school charm.
Young Bengals Defenders Growing into Their Roles
Defensive coordinator Al Golden has seen a shift on his side of the ball - and it’s coming from the youngest guys in the room. Over the past few weeks, Cincinnati’s young defenders have started to settle in, and it’s showing on the field.
That growth paid off in a big way during last Thursday’s win in Baltimore. The defense played fast, confident, and disciplined - a sign that the mental reps and in-game experience are starting to click. With veterans like Hendrickson still sidelined, the emergence of younger contributors couldn’t come at a better time.
Golden’s unit still has room to grow, but the confidence is building. And in December football, that’s exactly what you want to see.
Around the League: Coaching Questions, Financial Lessons, and a Heartwarming Draft Story
Mike Tomlin Responds to Fan Frustration
The Steelers' 26-7 loss to Buffalo on Sunday stirred up frustration in Pittsburgh, with fans vocal about their displeasure. Head coach Mike Tomlin was asked directly about the noise - and his answer was as steady as ever.
Tomlin didn’t flinch. He acknowledged the criticism but made it clear he's focused on the work ahead, not the outside chatter. It's classic Tomlin - poised under pressure, even when the heat gets turned up.
College Football’s Big Money Changing the Coaching Landscape
As college football salaries skyrocket - with some coaches now pulling in $13 million a year - the gap between the NCAA and the NFL is narrowing in unexpected ways. For some NFL coaches, the allure of running a college program, with more control and less day-to-day scrutiny, is becoming harder to ignore.
It’s a new reality that could reshape the coaching carousel in both leagues. The next wave of moves might not be about climbing the NFL ladder - it could be about stepping off it entirely.
Odell Beckham Jr. Opens Up About Financial Missteps
Odell Beckham Jr. recently reflected on his financial journey during an appearance on “The Pivot.” Despite earning over $100 million in his career, Beckham admitted he wasn’t fully prepared for the realities of managing that kind of wealth.
The interview, which resurfaced over the holiday weekend, struck a chord with fans and fellow players alike. Beckham’s honesty about the challenges of financial literacy in pro sports is a reminder that big contracts don’t always come with big understanding - and that even the brightest stars can face tough lessons off the field.
A Father’s Second Chance and a Son’s NFL Dream
Back in April, Trent Henderson was recovering from a lifesaving heart procedure when he got to witness something unforgettable: his son, TreVeyon, receiving the call that made him an NFL player.
The moment was emotional, powerful, and deeply personal - a father who got a second chance at life watching his son take his first steps into the league. It’s the kind of story that reminds us why the draft is more than just a transaction. It’s a dream realized, and sometimes, a family’s miracle.
Giants Rookie Abdul Carter Benched Again
New York Giants first-round pick Abdul Carter found himself on the bench to start Monday night’s 33-15 loss to the Patriots. The reason? Tardiness - again.
It’s the second time in three games that Carter’s been disciplined for being late, and while the talent is clearly there, the team is sending a message. For Carter, the next step isn’t about making plays - it’s about proving he can be trusted to show up, literally and figuratively.
As the season barrels toward the playoffs, the Bengals - and the league as a whole - are grappling with everything from injuries to identity. But if there’s one constant in December football, it’s this: the margin for error is razor thin, and every snap counts.