Image Source: Cincy Jungle
Titans vs Bengals carries an intriguing defensive storyline for Cincinnati, with the teamâs edge-rusher hierarchy changing faster than many expected. While the Bengals prepare for Tennessee, rookie Cashius Howell is gaining momentum, former sixth-round pick Cedric Johnson is earning trust, and 2025 first-round selection Shemar Stewart is facing an uncertain role.
The developments became especially noticeable after Cincinnatiâs dramatic 35-13 victory over the Baltimore Ravens. The Bengals were held scoreless in the first half, then exploded offensively after halftime to complete a surprising comeback and blowout. Beneath the headline result, however, Stewart was listed as a healthy scratch.
Titans vs Bengals Spotlight Cincinnatiâs Defensive Shift
A healthy scratch is a notable development for a player selected No. 17 overall only one year ago. Stewart has dealt with limited opportunities throughout his young career, and the latest decision suggests the Bengals currently believe other pass rushers give them a better chance to win.
Stewart suffered a hyperextended knee at the beginning of training camp and missed the opening weeks of the season. Although he has returned to health, his playing time has remained extremely limited. He has taken only 17 snaps in 2026 and has two career sacks.
That lack of opportunity could become an important subplot during the Titans vs Bengals matchup. Cincinnatiâs defensive staff must decide whether to continue rewarding the players producing now or give Stewart additional chances to develop his considerable potential.
Cashius Howell Delivers a Powerful Breakthrough
Howell has emerged as the most encouraging part of the Bengalsâ young edge-rushing group. The second-round pick recorded the first sack of his professional career against Tyler Huntley, bringing down the Baltimore quarterback in the backfield.
The sack was more than a personal milestone. It reinforced the impression that Howell is becoming a trusted part of Cincinnatiâs defensive rotation. According to Pro Football Focus, Howell ranks fifth among rookie pass rushers with 13 total pressures. He has also played 158 snaps this season, a massive contrast with Stewartâs 17.
Howell was Cincinnatiâs first selection in the 2026 NFL Draft after the Bengals traded their original first-round pick to the New York Giants for Dexter Lawrence. His immediate progress makes that draft decision look increasingly valuable.
The rookie does not fit the Bengalsâ traditional physical profile perfectly. At 6-foot-3 and 250 pounds, Howell is slightly smaller than the edge rushers the club typically favors in its 4-3 defensive system. What he brings instead is proven production. He recorded 11.5 sacks for Texas A&M during the 2025 season, showing an ability to consistently disrupt opposing backfields.
Stewart and Howell Represent Opposite Draft Bets
The contrast between the two former Texas A&M Aggies is striking. Stewart stands 6-foot-5 and weighs 270 pounds, offering ideal size, strength, and athletic ability. The Bengals selected him based largely on what they believed he could become.
His college production, however, never matched his physical gifts. Stewart finished his three-year career at Texas A&M with 4.5 sacks. Howell, meanwhile, entered the league with a smaller frame but a much stronger statistical résumé.
Cedric Johnson, another young Bengals edge rusher, has reportedly moved ahead of Stewart on the depth chart as well. If Howell and Johnson continue to make plays, Cincinnati may feel increasingly comfortable relying on production rather than draft pedigree.
Could Cincinnati Explore a Shemar Stewart Trade?
Reports indicate that multiple teams are monitoring Stewart ahead of the NFL trade deadline. Those clubs may believe they can unlock the talent that originally made him a first-round prospect.
For Cincinnati, trading Stewart would be a difficult decision. His athletic ability has not disappeared, and he remains young enough to develop into a productive professional pass rusher. At the same time, keeping a former first-round pick inactive does not solve the Bengalsâ immediate roster needs.
The Titans vs Bengals matchup could therefore serve as another important evaluation point. If Howell and Johnson handle their responsibilities effectively, the Bengals may have greater confidence in their current rotation. If Tennessee exposes a need for more depth or flexibility on the edge, Stewart could receive another opportunity to change the conversation.
For now, Howellâs rise has transformed what once looked like a questionable draft decision into a promising development. The Bengals still need to determine whether Stewart can become the player they envisioned, but the pressure is growing with every productive snap taken by Howell and Johnson.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the biggest storyline in the Titans vs Bengals matchup?
Cincinnatiâs changing edge-rusher rotation is a major storyline, particularly the rise of Cashius Howell and the limited role of Shemar Stewart.
Who is Cashius Howell?
Cashius Howell is a rookie Bengals edge rusher selected in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft. He played college football at Texas A&M.
How has Howell performed this season?
Howell has recorded his first career sack and ranks fifth among rookie pass rushers with 13 total pressures, according to Pro Football Focus.
Why has Shemar Stewartâs role declined?
Stewart has played only 17 snaps in 2026 and was a healthy scratch against Baltimore. The Bengals appear to have more confidence in Howell and Cedric Johnson at this stage.
Could the Bengals trade Stewart?
Reports suggest multiple teams are monitoring Stewart ahead of the trade deadline. Cincinnati could consider its options if his role remains limited.
