CINCINNATI – Cincinnati Bengals first-round pick Shemar Stewart understands the fan base’s disappointment with his rookie season. Because he feels it, too. “I d

Bengals rookie first-round pick Shemar Stewart is eager to get back on the field after two significant injuries

Cincinnati Bengals first-round pick Shemar Stewart potentially has four games to make his case. The Bengals cleared Stewart to return to practice this week, opening his 21-day return window and giving him a chance to suit up against the Baltimore Ravens in Week 15. Stewart certainly has much to prove if he gets on the field.

Stewart's return would give the Bengals six healthy defensive ends to work with on the active roster. The group was bolstered by Isaiah Foskey being signed off the practice squad a week after Stewart went to I.R. Foskey may be sent back down to the practice squad once Stewart is fully active.

A roster spot opened Thursday when Trey Hendrickson went on injured reserve following core muscle surgery, and Stewart could slot into that if deemed ready.

Head coach Zac Taylor told reporters Friday that Stewart (knee) is doubtful to return for Sunday's matchup against the Ravens, Geoff Hobson of the Bengals ' official site reports.

Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor says that first-round rookie Shemar Stewart is eligible to return from IR.