The Cincinnati Bengals have suffered a significant blow to their roster, losing offensive tackle D’Ante Smith for the entire 2024 season due to a torn patellar tendon. Smith sustained the injury during a joint practice with the Chicago Bears, a session that also saw running back Chris Evans go down with the same devastating injury just 10 minutes later.
Smith, now in his fourth season with the Bengals, was expected to provide depth on the offensive line but has been limited to just three regular-season appearances throughout his career. His injury, combined with the absence of first-round rookie Amarius Mims, who is sidelined with a strained pectoral muscle, leaves the Bengals notably thin at the offensive tackle position.
Evans, who was injured on a kickoff return, also faces a long road to recovery. The Bengals, who had hopes for Evans to contribute significantly this season, will now need to find answers at both running back and offensive tackle as they navigate these early setbacks.
With the loss of both Smith and Evans, the Bengals’ depth chart is suddenly in flux, and the team will need to rely on other players to step up as they prepare for the upcoming season.
