Cincinnati Bengals Lose Prime Opportunity With A.J. Green Out For Week 6

By Michael Terrill @MichaelTerrill on October 10, 2014

The Cincinnati Bengals were optimistic that star wide receiver A.J. Green would be able to play Sunday despite missing practice all week with an injured toe. Unfortunately, the team learned Friday morning that Green is officially ruled out for Sunday’s Week 6 contest against the Carolina Panthers.

The big reason why the news is disappointing is because the Panthers’ pass defense has been horrendous this season. By Green not playing for the second time in 2014, the Bengals are losing out on a prime opportunity to get their No. 1 wide receiver the touches that he needs to build confidence. It is not as if Green lacks confidence, but there is no denying that the team would like him to develop some consistency as this season progresses. That cannot happen if he is unable to stay healthy this season.

A quick look at the overall numbers and one would assume Green is off to a sluggish start. His receptions, receiving yards and touchdowns are way below where the other receivers stack up in the league this season. However, anyone who does make that assumption would be wrong to act so hastily.

The reality is Green is putting up solid numbers. He is averaging 5.6 receptions and 104.6 receiving yards per game while adding two touchdowns in three contests.

Green is an incredibly talented wide receiver who can be the difference between Cincinnati winning and losing on any given night. With that said, the Bengals must do everything in their power to get him back to 100 percent health so that he can have an impact on an every-game basis.

For that reason, Green will remain in a walking boot for now and sit out Sunday.

Michael Terrill is a Senior Writer for Rant Sports. Follow him on Twitter @MichaelTerrill, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.