Head coach Zac Taylor announced Wednesday that wide receiver Andrei Iosivas suffered a torn thumb ligament during the Bengals’ 23‑17 win in Houston on Sunday. The Princeton graduate underwent surgery later that day and has been placed on injured reserve.
Injury outlook and roster impact
Taylor emphasized that the injury is expected to keep Iosivas out for “weeks” rather than the entire season, giving the young receiver a chance to recover fully before returning to the field. In the first two weeks of the 2026 campaign, Iosivas logged three catches on four targets for 19 yards.
Since being selected in the sixth round of the 2023 draft, Iosivas has compiled 1,049 receiving yards on 87 receptions and 12 touchdowns, including a career‑high six scores in 2024. His absence creates an opening for other players to step into the Bengals’ passing attack.
Potential replacements
Fourth‑round pick Colbie Young and training‑camp standout Dohnte Meyers are the most likely candidates to receive increased snaps. “Several guys can step up. Whether it’s in the receiver room or tight‑end room, there’s a lot of ways we’re going to fill that,” Taylor said. “We have guys that will step up; they’ll be given more opportunity to fill those shoes.”
The Bengals could also look to their tight‑end group. Mike Gesicki caught the season’s first touchdown against Tampa Bay, while Erick All Jr. hauled in two receptions in Houston during Week 2.
Upcoming schedule
Cincinnati’s next test comes Sunday when the team travels to Pittsburgh for its first divisional matchup of the year. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. The Bengals will rely on veteran receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins to shoulder the load while the younger players earn experience.
What the injury means for the team
While Iosivas’ loss is a setback, the Bengals’ depth at receiver and tight end provides flexibility. The coaching staff’s confidence in the roster’s ability to adapt reflects the team’s broader commitment to developing talent and maintaining a competitive offense throughout the season.
Original reporting: WLWT Cincinnati — read the source article.
