On Tuesday, reports surfaced that Bengals 2009 first round pick Andre Smith was finally hitting the field, practicing with the team. We weren't sure if he'd play this weekend, but having him back now provides a sense of hope that Smith will be ready for the regular season. On Wednesday, it was speculated that Smith would get some snaps, due some injuries suffered at the position.

Now it's speculated that Smith could play a lot during Friday's preseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles.

Writes Geoff Hobson:

Smith may not be out there with the first group after just two days of practice, but it looks like he’s going to have to play a bunch because the Bengals are running out of tackles. Andrew Mitchell (knee) has already been ruled out and by the looks of backup tackle Anthony Collins hobbling on crutches Wednesday, he won’t be ready, either, because of a sprained ankle still getting evaluated. Behind the starters that leaves just Smith and Gabriel Manns.

And that's fine. The more work, the better.