:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/58101909/615045934.jpg.0.jpg)
The Cincinnati Bengals have become a MASH unit on defense.
The latest defender to go down was starting safety Shawn Williams. He was forced from the Week 16 matchup with the Detroit Lions with a possible concussion in the third quarter.
Williams’ injury came as he made a tackle on Lions running back Ameer Abdullah. Williams appeared groggy after the play, then was sent to the sideline by a referee, then was quickly sent to the locker room.
The Bengals have since announced Williams is being further evaluated for a concussion and is doubtful to return. He likely joins linebackers Jordan Evans and Vontaze Burfict, as well as running back Joe Mixon, to be lost in this game.
With Williams likely done, the Bengals will now rely on Josh Shaw and Clayton Fejedelem to pick up the slack at safety. Backup defensive back Brandin Wilson could also see some brief playing time.
We will update this post if any more details come out...