The Cincinnati Bengals activated safety Russ Yeast from their practice squad ahead of Sunday’s AFC clash with the Miami Dolphins, while wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins will return to the lineup after recent absences. The Bengals arrive in Miami aiming to snap a two-game losing streak and close out the first half of their season at 3-2 before their bye week.
Yeast’s elevation to the active roster was confirmed by the Bengals on Saturday, adding depth to a defensive backfield that has struggled with missed tackles and pressure, especially from Jordan Battle. The team has been under scrutiny for defensive lapses, and Yeast’s presence offers fresh options against a Dolphins side still searching for their first win of the campaign.
Chase and Higgins, who have formed one of the league’s more productive wide receiver duos in recent years, are set to return after missing time due to injury. Their availability brings a significant boost to quarterback Joe Burrow’s passing attack. Both players were spotted celebrating a touchdown together in Houston on September 20, a glimpse of the connection Burrow will look to rekindle in Miami.
The Dolphins, despite their 0-4 start, remain a threat on their home turf. The Bengals cannot afford a complacent approach, especially after their own vulnerabilities were exposed in recent games. Head coach Zac Taylor faces pressure to adjust his offensive scheme, which has been criticized as stagnant and potentially limiting Burrow’s impact.
The Bengals are keen to avoid further defensive mistakes, particularly in tackling, a problem highlighted in media coverage this week. The return of Yeast and the availability of Chase and Higgins could help balance the team’s efforts on both sides of the ball.
Cincinnati’s focus now turns fully to their Miami showdown, where they hope to secure a win that sets a positive tone heading into their bye week and a challenging game against the Baltimore Ravens. The Dolphins’ hunger for a first victory this season adds urgency to the contest, making this an important test for the Bengals’ resilience.
The latest roster update confirms Yeast is active for the game, while Chase and Higgins are both expected to play, though the Bengals will monitor other injured players closer to kickoff. This mix of returning talent and fresh defensive options sets the stage for a competitive AFC matchup in South Beach.
According to Yahoo Sports.
