As the Cincinnati Bengals prepare for a divisional road game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, their offense is already facing an unexpected personnel adjustment. Cincinnati must reshuffle its receiving options ahead of a matchup that could push the team to 3-0 for the first time since 2015.
The Bengals are coming off a 20-6 victory over the Houston Texans. But their preparations for Sunday’s trip to Pittsburgh now include managing the wide receivers behind Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins.
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Andrei Iosivas’ injury puts wideout depth under pressure
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Andrei Iosivas (80). Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images.
The Bengals will be without Andrei Iosivas for at least the next four games after he suffered a torn ligament in his thumb and was placed on injured reserve. ESPN’s Ben Baby reported Wednesday that the receiver underwent surgery to repair the tear, which he sustained during Cincinnati’s Week 2 win over Houston.
“Bengals WR Andrei Iosivas tore a ligament in his thumb and will be placed on IR. Iosivas will be back at some point this season, Taylor said.”
Bengals WR Andrei Iosivas tore a ligament in his thumb and will be placed on IR.
Iosivas will be back at some point this season, Taylor said.
— Ben Baby (@Ben_Baby) September 23, 2026
The injury is not expected to end Iosivas’ season. Head coach Zac Taylor said the receiver will be eligible to return later in the year. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported that Iosivas is expected to miss four to six weeks.
Iosivas’ absence leaves Bengals with another offensive adjustment
Iosivas had established himself as Cincinnati’s third starting wide receiver through the opening two games. He posted three receptions for 19 yards on four targets, including one catch for seven yards against Houston before leaving the game.
The Bengals have several options for replacing his snaps. Ke’Shawn Williams, who has been inactive on game days through the first two weeks, is among the players who could see his role change.
That adjustment will be tested immediately against the Steelers on Sunday. Cincinnati enters the matchup at 2-0, while Pittsburgh is 1-1.
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