Shemar Stewart carted off with apparent left leg injury in Bengals camp

The Cincinnati Bengals faced an early setback in training camp as defensive end Shemar Stewart was carted off the field with an apparent left leg injury during the team’s first practice of the 2026 season. The incident, which occurred during the second rep of 11-on-11 drills on Wednesday, has raised concerns about Stewart’s availability and the team’s defensive plans heading into the regular season.

Stewart, the Bengals’ 2025 first-round draft pick, was seen favoring his left knee before collapsing to the turf during a pass-rush drill. Trainers evaluated him on the field for several minutes, during which he attempted to put weight on the leg but was unable to do so. He was then transported off the field on a cart, with no immediate updates from the team on the severity of the injury. Video footage of the incident, which quickly circulated online, showed Stewart’s leg bending in an unnatural direction as he attempted to pressure quarterback Joe Flacco.

Medical experts speculated on the potential nature of the injury. Sports doctor Jesse Morse, citing the video, suggested Stewart may have suffered a knee hyperextension, with possibilities ranging from a bone bruise and PCL sprain to a torn ACL. The latter would be a significant blow to Stewart’s career and the Bengals’ defensive strategy. The team has invested heavily in its edge rushers this offseason, acquiring free agents Boye Mafe and Jonathan Allen, trading for Dexter Lawrence, and selecting Cashius Howell in the 2026 draft. Stewart was expected to play a key role in the unit, competing for a starting spot alongside Mafe and Myles Murphy.

Stewart’s rookie season was marred by injuries and inconsistency. He appeared in just eight games, starting five, after missing time due to a knee injury in Week 9 and an ankle issue in Week 2. His performance was criticized, with a 41.2 overall grade from Pro Football Focus ranking him last among 115 qualified edge rushers. Despite these challenges, Bengals defensive line coach Jerry Montgomery expressed optimism about Stewart’s potential during a April podcast, citing his offseason training and readiness to take a “big leap” in his second year.

The timing of the injury complicates Cincinnati’s evaluation of its defensive depth. Stewart entered camp competing for a starting role, and his absence could accelerate opportunities for younger players like Isaiah Foskey and Cashius Howell. Head coach Zac Taylor acknowledged the team’s evolving approach to preseason playing time, noting the presence of veteran players who may influence rotation decisions. However, the injury adds uncertainty to a unit already adjusting to new personnel and schemes.

Stewart’s status remains unclear, with the Bengals yet to release details about his condition. Fans and analysts alike have expressed concern over the severity of the injury, with social media reactions highlighting the “horrifying” nature of the incident. The Bengals’ medical staff will likely conduct further evaluations as the team progresses through training camp, with padded practices scheduled to begin later in the week. For now, the focus shifts to how the organization navigates this setback while preparing for the 2026 season.