The Cincinnati Bengals have discipline and injury problems entering Week 3. While the Bengals’ head coach, Zac Taylor, is trying to remain undefeated at 2-0, the all-star defensive end is in trouble because of disciplinary problems. While the Bengals’ HC Zac Taylor is dealing with major injuries for the season, a fine is something he can live with.

Cincinnati Nigerian-born defensive end Joseph Ossai was fined $11,593 for unnecessary roughness due to a facemask penalty following the Week 2 game. The incident unfolded in the fourth quarter as Ossai aggressively grabbed the facemask of Jaguars’ WR Parker Washington as he tried to tackle him, culminating in a penalty that drew league attention.

However, the on-field referees penalized the play during the game, the NFL later reviewed the footage and decided that the infraction warranted additional disciplinary action.

This leaves Ossai as the only Bengal to be fined by the league during Week 2. The NFL stated that Ossai can appeal the penalty, but given the size of the penalty and the situation, the likelihood of an appeal succeeding seems less.

Joseph re-signed with Bengal in March for one-year. He has not yet recorded a sack this season. However, he has appeared in 49 regular-season games and three playoff contests for Cincinnati, totaling 76 tackles, 9.5 sacks, and seven tackles for loss.

Ossai’s reaction and reputation as a hard-hitting defender contributed to the league’s decision to issue a fine. It’s the first time he’s been fined. A warning that even the slightest errors on the field can be gigantic issues in the NFL. That being said, in the absence of Shemar Stewart, Ossai should receive more pass-rush work until Stewart returns.

The Minnesota Vikings host the Cincinnati Bengals at U.S. Bank Stadium in Week 3. Minnesota started the season 1-1, following a close loss to Atlanta. Six of the Bengals’ players are reported to be out because of injury as they enter the game. The team will need to watch out to fix those problems to maintain their undefeated record and keep key players intact.

Troubles for Zac Taylor ahead of week 3.

In addition to Ossai’s fine, Bengals head coach Zac Taylor is navigating new challenges, particularly with injuries affecting the roster. NFL analyst David Carr highlighted concerns surrounding Taylor’s ability to adapt to roster limitations. “The Bengals have been dealing with some injury issues, and Taylor’s management of the depth chart will be crucial this week,” Carr noted.

Cincinnati faces significant defensive depth concerns with multiple key players banged up. Defensive end Shemar Stewart is out with an ankle injury after missing practice entirely, while cornerbacks Cam Taylor-Britt and DJ Turner create uncertainty in the secondary with hamstring issues. Taylor-Britt is listed as doubtful and didn’t practice, but Turner managed limited participation and carries a questionable designation.

Linebacker Logan Wilson returned to full practice despite ankle concerns, leading the team with 15 tackles. Defensive tackle B.J. Hill was rested but participated fully, contributing 1 sack and 9 tackles this season. Guard Dylan Fairchild also practiced fully despite a shoulder issue.

The Bengals rank third-worst offensively at 245.5 yards per game but have been more effective defensively, allowing 363.5 yards per contest, ranking 24th. Their passing defense remains problematic, surrendering 269.5 yards through the air for the fifth-worst in the NFL, while generating just 198.5 passing yards per game, ranking 19th. Cincinnati’s 245.5 total yards trail Minnesota’s 321.5 yards allowed by 76 yards, suggesting potential offensive challenges ahead.

These concerns are magnified by the absence of key contributors and the increased workload on players like Ossai. Taylor’s approach will be put to the test in an intense matchup against Minnesota, a team that has shown offensive flexibility.

Carson Wentz, quarterbacking the Vikings due to an injury to J.J. McCarthy, will offer Taylor a quarterback who is a pro with a tendency of having quality games in various systems. Wentz, in his Viking starting debut, had four touchdown passes, demonstrating how quickly he could assimilate and play in Kevin O’Connell’s scheme.

Taylor will also be without quarterback Joe Burrow, who is missing the game due to a turf toe injury. Backup Jake Browning has been named the official starter and brings experience from previously leading the team on a game-winning drive.

Carr emphasized that, “Taylor’s adaptability and decision-making under these conditions will be a defining factor in Week 3. It’s not just about talent; it’s about execution with a thin roster.”

With the Bengals playing against the Vikings, the team must balance discipline, managing players, and executing strategy.