Bengals TE C.J. Uzomah on track to play in Super Bowl?

One of the biggest questions surrounding the Bengals in the buildup to Super Bowl LVI has been the availability of tight end C.J. Uzomah. The news appears to be positive on his health status, as he is “tracking to play on Sunday,” according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network (Twitter link). 

Uzomah suffered an MCL injury in the team’s AFC Championship Game against the Chiefs before registering a catch. That put his status in serious doubt, even with the extra week off to heal. However, he has maintained throughout his media availabilities that he would be able to suit up for the title game.

As Rapoport notes, the 29-year-old missed practice on Wednesday but put in a limited session on Thursday. His colleague James Palmer tweets that Uzomah is also expected to participate in Friday’s lighter, final practice. That further points to the Bengals having their full array of pass-catchers available.

Uzomah had a career year in 2021, posting 49 catches for 493 yards and five touchdowns in 16 regular-season games. He also played a large role in Cincinnati’s playoff wins over the Raiders and Titans, making a combined 13 receptions for 135 yards and one score. Regardless of if he is able to play on Sunday or not, the pending free agent has likely earned himself a big payday come the offseason.

Assuming Uzomah is able to suit up, the Bengals’ offense will be at full strength, maximizing the chances of pulling off another upset.