Head coach Zac Taylor announced Wednesday that Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Andrei Iosivas has been placed on injured reserve following a torn thumb ligament that required surgery. The 26‑year‑old will be sidelined for a minimum of four games, with the team estimating a four‑to‑six‑week recovery period.
Injury details and recovery timeline
Iosivas suffered the injury during practice earlier this week. Medical staff confirmed the ligament tear and scheduled the procedure promptly, allowing the player to begin the rehabilitation process as soon as possible. Taylor emphasized that the Bengals have depth at the receiver position and expect other players to step up while Iosivas heals.
Impact on the Bengals’ receiving corps
Iosivas entered the 2026 season as the Bengals’ third starting wide receiver behind 2025 Pro Bowl selections Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. In his two appearances this season, he recorded three receptions on four targets for 19 yards. Since joining the team in 2023, Iosivas has compiled 87 catches on 148 targets for 12 touchdowns across 52 games, including 20 starts.
With Iosivas on injured reserve, the depth chart shifts. Dohnte Meyers moves up behind the starters, while Ke’Shawn Williams and Colbie Young remain behind Chase and Higgins. Taylor expressed confidence in the group’s ability to adapt: “We have several guys that can step up, whether it’s in the receiver room or the tight end room. There are a lot of ways we’re going to fill that.”
Upcoming schedule
The Bengals (2‑0) are set to travel to Pittsburgh on Sunday for their next matchup against the Steelers (1‑1). The team will rely on its remaining receivers to maintain the high‑powered passing attack that has propelled Cincinnati to an unbeaten start.
Background on Andrei Iosivas
Selected in the sixth round of the 2023 NFL Draft out of Princeton, Iosivas quickly earned a role in the Bengals’ offense. Known for his precise route running and reliable hands, he has become a valuable depth piece for the team’s aerial scheme. His injury comes at a crucial time, but the organization remains optimistic about his return later in the season.
Fans are encouraged to follow the Bengals’ official channels for updates on Iosivas’ recovery progress and any roster moves that may arise as the season unfolds.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
