Bengals Injury Update: Key Week 12 Issues Limit Options vs. Patriots

The Bengals injury update for Week 12 shows major concerns ahead of the matchup with the New England Patriots. Cincinnati lists quarterback Joe Burrow as questionable and rules out star pass rusher Trey Hendrickson. The report forces the coaching staff to reevaluate rotations, depth, and play-calling.

The timing is difficult. Cincinnati enters a critical AFC stretch, and several contributors remain uncertain or unavailable. Coaches confirmed the latest injury designations on the final report released Friday. The situation affects both sides of the ball as the Bengals attempt to recover after recent struggles.

Bengals Injury Update: Major Names Out and Doubtful Ahead of Patriots Game

Hendrickson’s absence is the biggest headline outside of Burrow. The standout defensive end returned briefly but reaggravated his injury, and coaches now expect that offseason surgery may be needed. He remains out for Week 12 but has not been placed on injured reserve. That gives him a chance to return later, but it also leaves the defensive line thin.

Reliable running back Samaje Perine is listed as doubtful. He continues to recover from an ankle injury suffered on a hip-drop tackle. His likely absence affects the backfield rotation and short-yardage packages. Without Perine, the Bengals lose a steady pass protector and outlet option. Cincinnati may need to lean more on Chase Brown in passing situations.

Defensive end Cam Sample is also ruled out. His loss removes another piece of the pass-rushing rotation. Cincinnati has relied heavily on Sample for snaps behind Hendrickson and Sam Hubbard. With both Hendrickson and Sample sidelined, the Bengals will need production from younger depth players. A team spokesperson confirmed that coaches have discussed rotation tweaks to manage the defensive workload, according to general reporting from outlets such as AP and CNN.

Daijahn Anthony is doubtful and unlikely to be activated for this matchup. Coaches have considered giving him opportunities over Geno Stone, but that decision now appears delayed by at least another week. The secondary already faces pressure against the Patriots’ short-area passing game. Anthony’s absence keeps depth limited and narrows substitution options.

The Bengals injury update also includes Joe Burrow, who is questionable but trending toward availability. However, reports suggest Cincinnati may adjust the playbook if Burrow does not show full mobility. Coaches are preparing contingency plans to reduce movement-heavy plays if needed. Shorter timing routes, quick decisions, and simplified reads may become more prominent.

How These Injuries Shape the Bengals’ Week 12 Strategy

The injuries force Cincinnati to adjust both defensive and offensive structures. Missing Hendrickson and Sample means fewer fresh bodies for edge pressure. This could lead to more blitzes from linebackers or creative stunts inside. The coaching staff may also rely on quicker defensive substitutions to protect against fatigue.

Offensively, Perine’s doubtful status is significant. Burrow relies on him for protection, and without that support, Cincinnati may shorten the passing game. The Bengals could shift toward faster releases and heavier use of tight ends. Early downs may lean more on Joe Mixon to stabilize drives.

The Bengals injury update paints a tough picture ahead of Week 12. Cincinnati needs precise adjustments to stay competitive against the Patriots. With several key contributors sidelined, depth players must step into larger roles as the team pushes through the most important stretch of the season.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the latest Bengals injury update for Week 12?

The latest report lists Burrow as questionable and rules out Hendrickson and Sample. Perine and Anthony are doubtful.

Q2: Will Joe Burrow play against the Patriots?

He is questionable but trending toward playing. Coaches may adjust the plan if mobility is limited.

Q3: Why is Trey Hendrickson out?

He reaggravated a previous injury and may need offseason surgery but has not been placed on injured reserve.

Q4: How will the injuries affect the defensive rotations?

The Bengals must rely on backups at defensive end and may use more blitz packages to compensate.

Q5: Is Samaje Perine expected to return soon?

He is doubtful this week. His timeline depends on recovery from an ankle injury.