The Cincinnati Bengals are facing injury challenges as starting safety Geno Stone is sidelined week-to-week with a soft tissue injury.

Why it matters: Stone's absence could significantly impact the Bengals' defensive strategy ahead of their upcoming preseason game against the Washington Commanders.

• With Stone doubtful for the match, the team will need to rely on backup safeties Tycen Anderson and Daijahn Anthony to step up and fill the void.
• Last season, Stone started all 17 games and was a key component in the Bengals’ defense.

What’s new: Coach Zac Taylor confirmed that while there are no long-term concerns regarding Stone's injury, his immediate absence alters the team's preparations.

• "Right now, no, I wouldn't expect that," Taylor stated when discussing the timeline for Stone's return.
• The Bengals secondary will be tested as they adjust to life without one of their starters.

Yes, but: The situation is not dire yet, as both Anderson and Anthony are expected to receive increased reps over the next six practices.

• Taylor emphasized the importance of these evaluations: "They've got to prove that they can walk in there and help us on defense."
• Their performance in practice will determine how effectively they can transition into starting roles if needed.

What to watch: Cornerback Cam Taylor-Britt has returned to practice and is being evaluated for availability against Washington.

• His presence could bolster the secondary, especially given the uncertainty surrounding Stone's condition.
• Taylor remarked that while having Taylor-Britt available would be advantageous, it is not critical for him to play in the preseason game.

The bottom line: As the Bengals navigate this injury setback, the development of their depth players will be crucial for maintaining their defensive integrity.

• The ability of Anderson and Anthony to perform under pressure may dictate the Bengals' success in the early stages of the season, particularly as they seek to solidify their roster before the regular season begins.

The Cincinnati Bengals are facing injury challenges as starting safety Geno Stone is sidelined week-to-week with a soft tissue injury.

Why it matters: Stone's absence could significantly impact the Bengals' defensive strategy ahead of their upcoming preseason game against the Washington Commanders.

• With Stone doubtful for the match, the team will need to rely on backup safeties Tycen Anderson and Daijahn Anthony to step up and fill the void.
• Last season, Stone started all 17 games and was a key component in the Bengals’ defense.

What’s new: Coach Zac Taylor confirmed that while there are no long-term concerns regarding Stone's injury, his immediate absence alters the team's preparations.

• "Right now, no, I wouldn't expect that," Taylor stated when discussing the timeline for Stone's return.
• The Bengals secondary will be tested as they adjust to life without one of their starters.

Yes, but: The situation is not dire yet, as both Anderson and Anthony are expected to receive increased reps over the next six practices.

• Taylor emphasized the importance of these evaluations: "They've got to prove that they can walk in there and help us on defense."
• Their performance in practice will determine how effectively they can transition into starting roles if needed.

What to watch: Cornerback Cam Taylor-Britt has returned to practice and is being evaluated for availability against Washington.

• His presence could bolster the secondary, especially given the uncertainty surrounding Stone's condition.
• Taylor remarked that while having Taylor-Britt available would be advantageous, it is not critical for him to play in the preseason game.

The bottom line: As the Bengals navigate this injury setback, the development of their depth players will be crucial for maintaining their defensive integrity.

• The ability of Anderson and Anthony to perform under pressure may dictate the Bengals' success in the early stages of the season, particularly as they seek to solidify their roster before the regular season begins.