Tee Higgins Injury Update: Will the Bengals Star Return After His Concussion?

The Cincinnati Bengals have officially ruled out wide receiver Tee Higgins for the Thanksgiving matchup against the Baltimore Ravens on November 27, 2025. The veteran pass-catcher remains in the NFL’s concussion protocol after a head injury in Week 12. The team confirmed he did not participate in any practices this week.

The decision arrives at a critical moment for Cincinnati, who enter Week 13 needing stability on offense. Head coach Zac Taylor emphasized that Higgins’ health remains the top priority as medical staff continue to evaluate his progress before clearing him for any return.

Latest Details on Tee Higgins’ Injury Status

Tee Higgins sustained a concussion during the Bengals’ Week 12 loss to the New England Patriots. The incident occurred in the second half when he absorbed a hard hit while attempting to secure a contested catch. Medical staff quickly escorted him to the locker room, where he was evaluated and ruled out for the remainder of that game.

According to the team’s final injury report, Higgins is listed as “Out” for Week 13. He did not practice on Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday, signaling he could not clear the multi-step NFL concussion protocol in time for Thursday’s rivalry game. The Bengals confirmed this stance late Wednesday.

Bleacher Report cited Zac Taylor reiterating that the team is choosing caution over urgency as Higgins continues recovering. Taylor noted that the Bengals will not rush him back, especially given league-mandated safety procedures.

The absence of Higgins places added pressure on the Bengals’ receivers, especially returning star Ja’Marr Chase. Cincinnati will also need depth players to contribute as Joe Burrow continues to work his way back from injury and regains chemistry with the offense.

Higgins has remained a reliable option when healthy, recording strong production earlier in the season. Losing him for a divisional game, especially on a short week, limits Cincinnati’s flexibility in the passing attack.

How the Bengals Offense Adjusts Without Tee Higgins

Cincinnati already entered Thanksgiving week with offensive challenges. With Higgins unavailable, the Bengals will rely more on Chase, Tyler Boyd, and their tight ends to stretch the field. Short-week preparation makes adjustments even more difficult, especially in a game with playoff implications.

Higgins’ absence also affects defensive matchups. Baltimore’s secondary may shift coverage inside, forcing other Bengals receivers to step up in contested situations. The Bengals must now balance their passing game carefully to maintain rhythm.

The long-term concern centers on Higgins’ recovery timeline. The Bengals have two more games ahead in December, and his availability will depend entirely on whether he clears protocol and responds well to increased activity.

For now, the Bengals move forward without Tee Higgins as he continues his concussion recovery. His status will remain closely monitored heading into Week 14, with future updates expected once he resumes practice activities.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why is Tee Higgins not playing against the Ravens?

He is out due to a concussion suffered in Week 12. He has not cleared the NFL protocol and did not practice this week.

Q2: When will Tee Higgins return?

There is no confirmed return date. He must clear every step of the concussion protocol before being allowed to play.

Q3: Who confirmed Tee Higgins’ injury status?

The Bengals’ final injury report and head coach Zac Taylor confirmed he is out for Week 13.

Q4: How does his absence affect the Bengals’ offense?

The Bengals lose a major red-zone and deep-ball threat. Other receivers must take on larger roles.

Q5: Did Tee Higgins practice this week?

No. He was a non-participant in all practices leading up to the Thanksgiving game.