Why didn't Bengals' Shemar Stewart play?

Cincinnati Bengals safety Shemar Stewart was given the day off for Sunday's game against the Baltimore Ravens, not due to any injury concerns. According to FOX 19 reporter Charlie Goldsmith, the reason was quite simple – the Bengals had a full and deep defensive line lineup, leaving little room for Stewart to make an impact. Stewart had been the 10th player on the defensive line depth chart all season, behind notable players like Cashius Howell, Cedric Johnson, and Kris Jenkins.

Goldsmith explained that the decision to scratch Stewart was essentially a "numbers game" with the defensive line, as all 10 of the team's defensive lineman were healthy and available for the game. In addition to Stewart's absence, the Bengals also prioritized adding depth to other positions and on special teams due to the impressive roster strength they currently possess.

Trade rumors surrounding Stewart's future did circulate throughout the week, but with all those capable players on the roster, the Bengals opted to leave him off the active roster for the game. For a player the Bengals drafted with the 17th overall pick in 2025, the hope now is that he can secure a bigger role in the defensive front that already has more than enough talent to go around.