CINCINNATI — The Bengals have already had a significant setback to a defense in transition with cornerback Trae Waynes' torn pectoral muscle.
Waynes, who had surgery Monday, was expected to start along with William Jackson III, but now has a long recovery ahead.
“We’ll let that process play out,” coach Zac Taylor said after practice, declining to say when Waynes might be ready to play again.
Waynes was supposed to be a key part of the Bengals' defensive overhaul after he signed to a three-year deal as a free agent from Minnesota.
The Bengals released former first-round pick Dre Kirkpatrick after a 2-14 season in 2019.
Receiver A.J. Green sat out the end of practice after tweaking a leg muscle. Taylor said it was precautionary. The Bengals used their franchise tag on Green, who missed all last season with an ankle injury.
