Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) throws during an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Cincinnati, Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026.
Kareem Elgazzar – FR170448 AP
Joe Burrow was a full participant in practice Friday, Sept. 18, and the Cincinnati Bengals quarterback is expected to play this week, coach Zac Taylor told reporters.
Back tightness limited Burrow the first two practices of the week, but he said Wednesday he planned to play Sunday at Houston.
Taylor confirmed that is the plan Friday, and that’s good news for Cincinnati going up against a 2025 AFC playoff team that returned a lot of pieces from last year’s roster. Here are five things to know going into the game:
More on Burrow
Although Taylor said Burrow is “good to go,” he is listed as questionable on the injury report, and Taylor did note that Josh Johnson could be elevated from the practice squad as a precaution.
Burrow described his back issue as just general soreness after a game, but he did very little Wednesday, progressed to some actual throwing Thursday during the media viewing time and was a full participant Friday.
Burrow said Wednesday that his mobility won’t be impacted, and Taylor told reporters Friday that the coaches won’t ask him to change the way he plays to be safer.
“I’m not comfortable saying don’t get the first down on third and 8,” Taylor said. “That’s why he’s here. He’s a competitor. Taking the stinger out of him, I’m not about that.”
Get the ball to Ja’Marr Chase
The Bengals didn’t get Ja’Marr Chase involved enough in the opener, and no one danced around that.
Burrow targeted his best receiver just four times and also missed Chase being wide open for a likely touchdown on third-and 2 late in the second quarter. Burrow quickly threw to Andrei Iosivas, getting the Bengals to the 2-yard line and shy of a first down, and Cincinnati settled for a field goal going into halftime for a 24-10 lead.
Chase finished with two catches for 12 yards.
“We didn’t throw him the ball enough,” offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher said. “It’s pretty simple. We’ve got to throw him the ball more. He’s the best receiver in the world. … I’m sure it probably ate at him a little bit, but he didn’t show that. It eats at me a little bit, so we’ll have to correct that.”
Beating Texans defensive line
The Texans boast what PFF.com calls “the NFL’s most devastating edge duo in Willie Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter,” as the only pair of teammates to earn PFF pass-rush grades above 90.0. Both were among the top five defensive linemen in total pressures last year, and defensive tackles Tommy Togiai and Sheldon Rankins (former Bengal) both had grades above 70.0 in 2025.
It’s a good test for Cincinnati’s offensive line, which had the best pressure rating in the league in Week 1. Right tackle Amarius Mims especially is looking forward to the challenge as he tries to establish himself as one of the best at his position in Year 3.
“It’s a little bit like what the combination of Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins does to defenses, pick your poison a little bit,” Pitcher said of the Texans’ edge duo. “You still only get to put 11 guys on the field, so you gotta decide how you’re gonna devote resources, how much extra you can devote to any one player. Devoting extra to one player always cost you something. Devoting extra to multiple players costs you a lot. Doesn’t mean you can’t do it, so our job as coaches is to figure out where is the point on the spectrum for us to live.”
Close
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) Signals before the snap at the end of the second quarter. 09.13.26 TB at CIN
Cincinnati Bengals tight end Mike Gesicki (88) celebrates in the end zone after a touchdown reception in the first quarter. 09.13.26 TB at CIN
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins (5) runs after the catch in the second quarter. 09.13.26 TB at CIN
Cincinnati Bengals running back Chase Brown leaps across the goal line for a touchdown in the second quarter of a game Sunday, Sept. 13, in Cincinnati. JEREMY MILLER / Contributed
Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Dax Hill (23) Celebrates after the Bengals recover a Baker Mayfield fumble in the end zone in the second quarter. 09.13.26 TB at CIN
Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II (97) runs out of the tunnel pregame. 09.13.26 TB at CIN JEREMY MILLER
Cincinnati Bengals tight end Mike Gesicki (88) celebrates in the end zone after a touchdown reception in the first quarter. 09.13.26 TB at CIN
Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Myles Murphy (99) forces a fumble by Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) in the first quarter. 09.13.26 TB at CIN JEREMY MILLER
Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II (97) and Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Boye Mafe (53) celebrate after Cincinnati forced a turnover in the first quarter. 09.13.26 TB at CIN
Cincinnati Bengals line up on defense during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Pregame flyover of the Cincinnati Bengals vs the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) runs with the ball before fumbling in the second quarter. 09.13.26 TB at CIN
Cincinnati Bengals safety Bryan Cook celebrates a broken up pass against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER / CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals running back Chase Brown (30) leaps across the goal line for a touchdown in the second quarter. during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals tight end Drew Sample (89) runs after a catch during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals tight end Mike Gesicki (88) celebrates a touchdown during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals tight end Mike Gesicki (88) celebrates a touchdown during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) drops back to throw during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) drops back to throw during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Dax Hill (23) Celebrates after the Bengals recover a Baker Mayfield fumble in the end zone in the second quarter during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals huddle during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Myles Murphy forces a fumble by Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield Sunday, Sept. 13. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTEd
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja’marr Chase (1) attempts to catch a pass during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Barrett Carter (49) forces a fumble from Baker Mayfield during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II (97) and Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Boye Mafe (53) celebrate after Cincinnati forced a turnover in the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) prepares to take the snap against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals cornerback DJ Turner II (0) makes a tackle during the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals tight end Mike Gesicki (88) celebrates a touchdown during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals tight end Mike Gesicki (88) receives a pass for a touchdown during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II (97) rushes during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins (5) runs after the catch in the second quarter during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals punter Ryan Rehkow (8) punts downfield during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals running back Chase Brown (30) celebrates a touchdown in the second quarter during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals recover a fumble by Baker Mayfield during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) throws the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Demetrius Knight Jr. (left) and safety Jordan Battle celebrate the defensive touchdown during the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. Jeremy Miller / Contributed
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) throws the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) slides out to the right and completes a pass to tight end Mike Gesicki (88) in the fourth quarter during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Bengals fans try to stay cool during the third quarter during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins (5) completes a reception during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) Signals before the snap during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) walks off the field after their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle T.J. Slaton Jr. (98) celebrates a fumble recovery during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) speaks with Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) postgame against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Josiah Trotter (45) runs back an interception for a touchdown against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals tight end Mike Gesicki (88) is tackled after a reception during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) throws the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) rushes for a touchdown against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins (5) completes a reception during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals fans watch the game during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals running back Chase Brown (30) rushes during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals cornerback DJ Ivey (38) walks off the field after their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor looks on during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals cheerleader during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals place kicker Evan McPherson (2) celebrates a field goal during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals (X does X) during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle Jonathan Allen (93) sacks Baker Mayfield during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals running back Samaje Perine (34) rushes during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals tight end Mike Gesicki (88) celebrates a reception during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja’marr Chase (1) lines up for the snap during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II (97) walks off the field after their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) Signals before the snap at the end of the second quarter. 09.13.26 TB at CIN
Cincinnati Bengals tight end Mike Gesicki (88) celebrates in the end zone after a touchdown reception in the first quarter. 09.13.26 TB at CIN
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins (5) runs after the catch in the second quarter. 09.13.26 TB at CIN
Cincinnati Bengals running back Chase Brown leaps across the goal line for a touchdown in the second quarter of a game Sunday, Sept. 13, in Cincinnati. JEREMY MILLER / Contributed
Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Dax Hill (23) Celebrates after the Bengals recover a Baker Mayfield fumble in the end zone in the second quarter. 09.13.26 TB at CIN
Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II (97) runs out of the tunnel pregame. 09.13.26 TB at CIN JEREMY MILLER
Cincinnati Bengals tight end Mike Gesicki (88) celebrates in the end zone after a touchdown reception in the first quarter. 09.13.26 TB at CIN
Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Myles Murphy (99) forces a fumble by Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) in the first quarter. 09.13.26 TB at CIN JEREMY MILLER
Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II (97) and Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Boye Mafe (53) celebrate after Cincinnati forced a turnover in the first quarter. 09.13.26 TB at CIN
Cincinnati Bengals line up on defense during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Pregame flyover of the Cincinnati Bengals vs the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) runs with the ball before fumbling in the second quarter. 09.13.26 TB at CIN
Cincinnati Bengals safety Bryan Cook celebrates a broken up pass against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER / CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals running back Chase Brown (30) leaps across the goal line for a touchdown in the second quarter. during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals tight end Drew Sample (89) runs after a catch during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals tight end Mike Gesicki (88) celebrates a touchdown during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals tight end Mike Gesicki (88) celebrates a touchdown during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) drops back to throw during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) drops back to throw during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Dax Hill (23) Celebrates after the Bengals recover a Baker Mayfield fumble in the end zone in the second quarter during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals huddle during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Myles Murphy forces a fumble by Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield Sunday, Sept. 13. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTEd
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja’marr Chase (1) attempts to catch a pass during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Barrett Carter (49) forces a fumble from Baker Mayfield during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II (97) and Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Boye Mafe (53) celebrate after Cincinnati forced a turnover in the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) prepares to take the snap against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals cornerback DJ Turner II (0) makes a tackle during the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals tight end Mike Gesicki (88) celebrates a touchdown during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals tight end Mike Gesicki (88) receives a pass for a touchdown during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II (97) rushes during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins (5) runs after the catch in the second quarter during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals punter Ryan Rehkow (8) punts downfield during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals running back Chase Brown (30) celebrates a touchdown in the second quarter during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals recover a fumble by Baker Mayfield during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) throws the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Demetrius Knight Jr. (left) and safety Jordan Battle celebrate the defensive touchdown during the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. Jeremy Miller / Contributed
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) throws the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) slides out to the right and completes a pass to tight end Mike Gesicki (88) in the fourth quarter during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Bengals fans try to stay cool during the third quarter during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins (5) completes a reception during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) Signals before the snap during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) walks off the field after their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle T.J. Slaton Jr. (98) celebrates a fumble recovery during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) speaks with Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) postgame against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Josiah Trotter (45) runs back an interception for a touchdown against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals tight end Mike Gesicki (88) is tackled after a reception during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) throws the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) rushes for a touchdown against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins (5) completes a reception during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals fans watch the game during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals running back Chase Brown (30) rushes during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals cornerback DJ Ivey (38) walks off the field after their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor looks on during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals cheerleader during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals place kicker Evan McPherson (2) celebrates a field goal during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals (X does X) during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle Jonathan Allen (93) sacks Baker Mayfield during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals running back Samaje Perine (34) rushes during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals tight end Mike Gesicki (88) celebrates a reception during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja’marr Chase (1) lines up for the snap during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II (97) walks off the field after their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Test for the Bengals D
The Bengals defense wants to show that early success last week was no fluke, after recording four sacks and four turnovers.
C.J. Stroud will be missing his best target with Nico Collins nursing a hamstring, which would hurt the passing game, but David Montgomery is very capable on the ground and Stroud is capable of adjusting.
“I think he plays with a lot of poise,” Bengals defensive coordinator Al Golden said. “He’s very accurate. Great, efficient release. He can make plays with his feet. He’s willing to push the pocket, understands the rush, find explosives down the field or take off and run. … It’s a big challenge for our guys.”
Injuries of note
Aside from Burrow, Bengals defensive tackle B.J. Hill also is listed as questionable on the injury report after not practicing Wednesday or Friday and being limited Thursday because of an Achilles injury.
Samaje Perine missed practices Thursday and Friday due to illness but will play Sunday, and second-year defensive end Shemar Stewart could be available for his season debut after a second week of full participation in practices coming back from a hyperextended knee injury suffered on the first day of training camp.
Houston declared Collins out, as well as defensive end Jadaveon Clowney (knee), linebacker Jake Hummel (groin) and starting right guard Ed Ingram (groin).
Cincinnati Bengals tight end Drew Sample (89) runs after a catch during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Jeremy Miller
Cincinnati Bengals tight end Drew Sample (89) runs after a catch during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 33-27. JEREMY MILLER/CONTRIBUTED
Jeremy Miller