:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/57257877/usa_today_10250044.0.jpg)
The Cincinnati Bengals have announced their inactives list for Sunday’s game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. As expected, it includes the Bengals’ five injured players who were expected to be ruled out.
For Cincinnati, the following players are out:
- Wide receiver John Ross
- H-back Ryan Hewitt
- Cornerback Adam Jones
- Wide receiver Tyler Boyd
- Safety Derron Smith
- Offensive lineman Alex Redmond
- Offensive lineman Christian Westerman
All five players who were listed as questionable, out or doubtful are inactive, including Tyler Boyd, who continues to recover from a knee injury. It’s no surprise to see John Ross ruled out after being unable to get a full week of practice in. He was limited in two sessions and went full in what amounted to a walk through on Friday. Look for him to return in Week 7.
The injuries to Ross and Boyd have allowed fourth-round rookie Josh Malone to be active for the first time. He has yet to see a regular-season snap after a promising training camp and preseason.
As expected, Adam Jones is also out after being listed as doubtful with a back injury. Starting in his place will be William Jackson III, though Darqueze Dennard will also see plenty of snaps.
For the Steelers, the following players are inactive:
- Quarterback Joshua Dobbs
- Wide receiver Justin Hunter
- Cornerback Brian Allen
- Linebacker Arthur Moats
- Offensive tackle Jerald Hawkins
- Offensive tackle Marcus Gilbert
- Defensive end Stephon Tuitt
As expected, the Steelers will be without defensive lineman Stephon Tuitt, who also has a back injury. That’s a big loss for Pittsburgh and a huge plus for Cincinnati's struggling offensive line, which should have an easier time protecting Andy Dalton and opening up running lanes for Joe Mixon.
The Bengals’ defensive line will get a nice boost with Steelers starting right tackle Marcus Gilbert is out. He’s inactive after being listed as doubtful with a hip issue, which is great news for Carlos Dunlap and Carl Lawson as they look to terrorize Ben Roethlisberger off the edge.