AP

Starters might not have much longer to play for the Bengals.

Left guard Travelle Wharton was carted off the field on the team’s first offensive series and he quickly got company when the defense returned to the field. Linebacker Rey Maualuga and defensive end Carlos Dunlap both left the game after injuring their right knees.

Maualuga needed the help of two trainers to leave the field after taking a helmet to the knee. Dunlap was down for several minutes, but he was able to leave the field under his own power. The Bengals have already released word that their returns are considered doubtful. Despite the injuries, the defense has held the Jets scoreless on their first two drives.

With injury issues already at cornerback, the Bengals can ill afford to lose players elsewhere in the lineup.