Tee Higgins on Joe Burrow ‘practicing like he was in Week 1’
Tee Higgins on Joe Burrow ‘practicing like he was in Week 1 for Cincinnati Bengals
The Cincinnati Bengals are getting their No. 1 tight end back, and his return has added value for the team’s next game.
The Bengals on Nov. 21 activated tight end Mike Gesicki from injured reserve, making him available for the Nov. 23 game against the New England Patriots at Paycor Stadium (1 p.m.).
Gesicki hadn’t recorded a catch since the Oct. 5 loss to the Detroit Lions due to a pectoral injury but should rejoin his teammates on the field this weekend after being a full practice participant throughout the week leading up to hosting 9-2 New England.
The timing of Gesicki’s return has value for Cincinnati on a number of fronts. Not only is he its No. 1 tight end threat, but he forces the Patriots to respect the Bengals at that position during a week in which Ja’Marr Chase won’t be on the field for Cincinnati.
Chase was suspended for the Patriots game for spitting on Pittsburgh Steelers safety Jalen Ramsey on Nov. 16 at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh. His absence could have a domino effect on Tee Higgins, the Bengals’ acting No. 1 receiver, as he figures to receive consistent double-team coverage.
In that way, Chase’s absence cracks the door for other Bengals to have a bigger share of the offense against New England, and snaps and opportunities for other Bengals offensive skill players should be available.
Gesicki in 2025 has eight catches on 16 targets for 61 yards.