📸 Image Credit: ESPN
The Cincinnati Bengals’ uphill battle in the AFC North just got steeper. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the team has placed veteran tight end Mike Gesicki on injured reserve after he suffered a pectoral injury during the Week 6 loss to the Green Bay Packers. The move sidelines one of Cincinnati’s key offensive pieces for at least four games, further testing the team’s depth as it looks to turn its season around.
Gesicki’s Injury Comes at a Tough Time
Gesicki’s absence is a significant blow for quarterback Joe Flacco, who had started to develop chemistry with the athletic tight end after being traded to Cincinnati from the Cleveland Browns on October 7. In limited action, Gesicki provided a reliable middle-of-the-field option for Flacco, who thrives on timing routes and quick reads.
The Bengals’ tight end group, already thin to begin the year, now faces added pressure. Expect Tanner Hudson and Drew Sample to see increased targets, especially in third-down and red-zone situations.
Flacco Shows Promise in Bengals Debut
Despite last week’s loss to Green Bay, Cincinnati looked noticeably more confident on offense with Flacco under center compared to the previous three weeks led by Jake Browning. The veteran’s poise, decision-making, and ability to stretch the field gave the Bengals offense some much-needed rhythm.
Now, with another week in offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher’s system, the Bengals are hoping Flacco can take another step forward. The offense will need to find its identity quickly, especially against a Steelers defense that ranks among the league’s best in forcing turnovers and limiting big plays.
Cincinnati Desperate for a Win
The Bengals enter Thursday Night Football with a 2-4 record, having not won a game since Week 2—the same week Joe Burrow was placed on injured reserve due to a toe injury. The losing streak has derailed early-season optimism, and head coach Zac Taylor faces growing urgency to steady the team before it slips completely out of playoff contention.
Steelers Riding High into AFC North Battle
On the other sideline, the Pittsburgh Steelers come in hot at 4-1, sitting near the top of the division. Led by a dominant defensive front and the consistent play of Aaron Rodgers, Pittsburgh has found multiple ways to win close games this season. They will look to capitalize on Cincinnati’s depleted offense.
Key Storylines to Watch
- Flacco’s Second Start: Can the veteran quarterback build on his Week 6 performance and deliver his first win as a Bengal?
- Tight End Depth: How will the Bengals adjust without Gesicki, especially in critical passing situations?
- Steelers’ Defensive Pressure: Will Pittsburgh’s front seven overwhelm a Cincinnati offensive line that has struggled with consistency?
Game Details
- Matchup: Pittsburgh Steelers (4-1) vs. Cincinnati Bengals (2-4)
- Date: Thursday, October 16, 2025
- Kickoff Time: 8:15 p.m. ET
- Location: Paycor Stadium, Cincinnati, OH
- Broadcast: Prime Video
