The Bengals have designated CB Trae Waynes and OL D’Ante Smith for return off IR. This opens up a 21 day window in which they can practice without counting towards the 53 man roster limit. Both can be activated anytime within the window.
After signing with the Bengals during free agency in 2020, Wayes has only appeared in a couple of games for the team. He saw action in weeks 4 and 5 against the Jaguars and Packers, respectively, but tweaked his hamstring injury in the latter of the two.
It remains to be seen if he will reclaim his starting spot. Eli Apple has played very well in recent weeks, perhaps earning himself an extended chance to keep the job. Nevertheless, it will be good to have Waynes back. CB depth is extremely important, especially down the stretch. Further, Chidobe Awuzie was a little banged up in the 2nd half of the Chargers game. He is not currently expected to miss time, but having some extra insurance is nice.
Smith, meanwhile, was placed on IR with a knee injury sustained in practice, prior to week 6. Going back to the preseason, and even parts of the regular season, Smith has shown promise. The Bengals have been banged up lately along the OL, with Riley Reiff and Trey Hopkins both missing the week 13 matchup against the Chargers. Smith will add some solid depth.
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