Why it's finally time for Bengals first-round pick to shine

The Bengals' 2023 draft class has been somewhat quiet halfway through the season, but the time has finally come for one of their promising rookies to establish himself as a key piece for the future.

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported that pass-rusher Trey Hendrickson is expected to have a short-term absence after he suffered a hyperextended knee in Cincinnati's Week 10 loss to the Texans. 

It's quite the loss for the defense, which has been playing much better as of late, as Hendrickson leads the team in sacks (8.5). But it is the perfect opportunity for DE Myles Murphy, the Bengals first-round pick in 2023, to shine.

Murphy has seen limited action as he is a little lost on the depth chart, posting just six tackles and one sack on the season. But it's safe to say he is ready for an increased role in Week 11.

"I'm excited for any opportunity, every opportunity from OTAs all the way up until now," Murphy told reporters, including Mike Petraglia. "Really any opportunity I can put my talents on display, I'm always good for it."

The Clemson product had 116 tackles, 18.5 sacks and six forced fumbles in his collegiate career. Cincinnati is certainly hoping he can find similar success in the NFL.

Murphy's teammates, including Hendrickson, seem to believe he will ahead of his first real test.

"I feel like [Hendrickson] has trust and confidence in me," Murphy added. "We gotta step up, honestly. Step up and keep things going how the defense has been playing."

It won't be any easy test as the Bengals take on the Ravens, who lead the league in rushing yards per game (154.9). Murphy must make a difference if Cincinnati hopes to upset Baltimore.