Now would be a good time for John Ross to make his presence known with the Cincinnati Bengals.

Ross made a few superb plays this year before going down with an injury, with two of his seven catches going for touchdowns.

But with A.J. Green out for what sounds like at least two games and Ross practicing, the former top-10 pick has a chance to finally prove himself:

John Ross back in the mix at practice as well and Billy Price continues to take part. Good sign for both of those going this weekend. — Paul Dehner Jr. (@pauldehnerjr) November 5, 2018

After all, a team like the Bengals takes a prospect like Ross in the top 10 for moments like this.

Ross has flirted with the “bust” word since arriving in the NFL in large part, unfortunately, because his body hasn’t been able to handle the rigors of the league. But when the marriage of his health and skills combines with smart play calling, he’s flashed that electric ability.

And the Bengals need it to all come together in Week 10 with the New Orleans Saints in town. The Saints are a seven-win team rolling opponents at home and on the road, but also have a defense coughing up 27.3 points per game — something Ross can exploit if he’s on the field.

While it’s a little farther ahead, this will be the same story in Week 11 on the road against the Baltimore Ravens. The Bengals have walked over the Ravens over the years lately, but much of that has come because they don’t have an answer for Green. If he can’t go, Ross needs to be there to step up.

Rest assured nobody else is going to step up. Josh Malone has been in the doghouse after some drops. Alex Erickson and Cody Core are special teams guys. As good as Tyler Boyd is, he can’t carry the offense on his own when defenses don’t have to worry about anyone else at all.

This is about the fulfillment of expectations at this point. Ross’ chance to live up to the draft slot is right here for taking, with his team down its best player and facing a brutal two-game stretch against would-be playoff teams, if not contenders.

It’s a chance for the past to go forgotten, provided Ross can get out there and make plays. If not, Green’s possible return will continue to hold the team’s fortunes swinging in the balance with no help in sight, both because the team decided to remain in a holding pattern when it comes to making additions, and because guys like Ross aren’t seizing the moment.