Geno Atkins of the Cincinnati Bengals, one of the best defensive players in the NFL, was lost for the season in a Thursday night game against the Miami Dolphins. The ACL tear sent the All-Pro defensive tackle to injured reserve and was easily the worst AFC North injury of the week.
NFL injuries, Week 9: Geno Atkins done for the year
The Bengals will have to hold on to their AFC North lead without the contributions of All-Pro DT Geno Atkins.
Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports
While the loss of a such a significant player is a notable one, Mojokong of SB Nation’s Bengals blog, Cincy Jungle, doesn’t think the season is doomed for the team:
Of course, there will be a drop off—it’s Geno friggin Atkins—but it is not doomsday the way some want to make the situation. The comparisons to New England’s defense and their missing stars is not quite a fair one. The Bengals have a notable depth advantage over most NFL teams.
Also injured in the game was rookie running back Giovani Bernard, who left with a rib injury, but Mike Silver of NFL.com reported that he "should be ok." A rib injury for Browns quarterback Jason Campbell is also not considered to be serious, as head coach Rob Chudzinski thinks the veteran passer will be ready to return to action after the team's Week 10 bye. Wide receiver Greg Little is also expected to return after suffering a sprained shoulder.
Injuries for cornerbacks Jimmy Smith and Ike Taylor of the Ravens and Steelers, respectively, could be more serious although their statuses aren't yet known. Smith left Sunday's game with a groin injury and will be evaluated further, according to Aaron Wilson of the Baltimore Sun, while Taylor suffered a concussion, according to head coach Mike Tomlin.
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