Shemar Stewart: Everything you need to know

Stewart recorded 11 total tackles (five solo), including 1.0 sacks, and one pass defensed across eight games in 2025. Stewart, a 2025 first-round pick from Texas A&M, didn't participate in the Bengals' offseason program and failed to report to training camp on time due to a post-draft contract dispute. This may have contributed to his slow start in the NFL, as he recorded just six total tackles over his first five games. Stewart also struggled to stay healthy, missing nine contests due to a lingering knee injury. Despite the setbacks, 22-year-old will likely operate as one of the Bengals' top edge rushers during the 2026 season.

Stewart (knee) was activated from the injured reserve list Friday and has no injury designation ahead of Sunday's matchup against the Dolphins. Stewart had missed the Bengals' last five games due to a knee injury suffered in the Week 9 loss to the Bears, but following a week of full practice sessions, he's ready to suit up Sunday. The 2025 first-round pick from Texas A&M has tallied just six total tackles in five appearances this season. Now fully healthy, he's expected to start opposite Myles Murphy in Week 16.

Stewart (knee) has been downgraded and ruled out ahead of Sunday's matchup against the Ravens. The rookie defensive end is now in line to miss his fifth consecutive game as he continues to recover from a knee injury sustained in the Week 9 loss to the Bears. While Stewart remains sidelined, expect Myles Murphy and Joseph Ossai to start on the Bengals' defensive line.