The Cincinnati Bengals ' already slim hopes of claiming the AFC North crown this season blew away in snowy Orchard Park on Sunday, following a brutal 39-34 loss to the Buffalo Bills. Making matters worse, one of the team's star players suffered a concerning setback . Tee Higgins is back in concussion protocol , according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.

The sixth-year wide receiver missed Cincy's Thanksgiving victory over the Baltimore Ravens because of the same issue. Recurring concussion-related problems obviously require serious attention. Beyond what the Bengals have invested in Higgins — $115 million contract extension and $40.9 million guaranteed — it is imperative that they prioritize his safety.

Considering that the season is essentially over following the fourth-quarter fiasco

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