Bengals DE Shemar Stewart didn't play vs Steelers. Zac Taylor explains

One week following his Bengals debut and first sack of the 2026 season against the Houston Texans, defensive end Shemar Stewart did not take the field during the team's Week 3 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers. Head coach Zac Taylor provided an explanation for Stewart's absence, stating that the Bengals had a strong defensive line that day, with all four players contributing effectively.

Taylor emphasized that they were pleased with Stewart's performance and effort, noting that he had only started practicing three weeks prior and was still nine practices away from full participation. Despite his initial setback, Taylor expressed confidence in Stewart's attitude and potential future playing time. Stewart, the Bengals' first-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft, had played eight games during his rookie campaign and had undergone knee surgery in November 2025, leading to a stint on the Reserve/Injured List.