Bengals Suffer Massive Loss Before Steelers Game

The Cincinnati Bengals get some bad injury news ahead of their matchup with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

PITTSBURGH -- The Pittsburgh Steelers will host the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 16 in what could be a pivotal game for both teams. But ahead of their matchup, the Bengals suffered a significant loss to the defense, which appears to be serious. 

According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, Bengals defensive tackle D.J. Reader suffered what is believed to be a significant groin injury. Reader underwent an MRI to confirm the team's fears, but Cincinnati may have lost one of their biggest names on the defensive line near the end of the season. 

#Bengals DT DJ Reader, who was carted off and quickly ruled out, has suffered a potentially significant quad injury, source says. He had an MRI to determine a diagnosis.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 16, 2023

Reader started all 13 games for the Bengals this season, recording 34 tackles, two tackles for loss, a sack and seven quarterback hits. Without him, Cincinnati will turn to Josh Tupou or Zach Carter as their starter. 

Tupou, 29, has played in 10 games this season, recording 10 tackles and a tackle for loss. Carter has started two games for the Bengals this year, recording 15 tackles, one forced fumble and a tackle for loss. 

The Steelers currently hold the lead over the Bengals in the AFC playoff race, but with several teams competing for the final playoff spots, they'll need to complete the season sweep to keep their postseason chances alive. 

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