The Cincinnati Bengals got some good and bad news just before their Week 14 matchup against the Buffalo Bills.
On the bright side, star wide receiver Tee Higgins cleared concussion protocol and is expected to play on Sunday.
The downside is the team’s offense will be shorthanded after it was revealed by NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero that former third-round wide receiver Jermaine Burton wouldn’t play in the game for disciplinary reasons.
“The Bengals have suspended WR Jermaine Burton for today’s game at Buffalo, the team announced,” Pelissero reported. “Burton will be listed as inactive for the game.”
“Jermaine Burton’s suspension will cost him a game check worth $59,320.88,” Pelissero added in a follow-up post.
More News: NFL Makes Punishment Decision on Bills QB Josh Allen Before Bengals Game
After appearing in 14 games as a rookie last season (he logged four catches on 14 targets for 107 yards), Burton has yet to play this season. He’s been a healthy scratch in every one of Cincinnati’s previous 12 games as he’s dealt with several off-the-field issues.
The second-year wideout is no stranger to being in head coach Zac Taylor’s dog house. He didn’t play in the team’s regular-season finale against the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2024 due to a coach’s decision.
More News: Jared Goff Incident Could Lead to Big NFL Fine for Cowboys Pass-Rusher
More News: NFL Reaches Punishment Decision After Justin Herbert-Maxx Crosby Incident
Burton’s lack of playing time has opened the door for bigger roles for third-year WR Andre Iosivas and 26-year-old Mitchell Tinsley.
Iosivas is third on the team behind Ja’Marr Chase (86 receptions, 971 yards, rive touchdowns) and Higgins (40 catches, 575 yards, seven TDs) with 24 receptions, 346 yards, and two scores. Tinsely has seven catches on 21 targets for 100 yards and two touchdowns as well.
Three years into his NFL career, Iosivas has emerged as a fantastic No. 3 option behind Chase and Higgins. He’s totaled 75 catches, 941 yards, and 12 touchdowns while averaging 2.5 yards per reception across 45 games.
More News: Nebraska Coach Firing Hints at Major Shift in Dylan Raiola’s Transfer Plans