Bengals practice theme on Wednesday: Return of the Injured

The theme to Wednesday's practice was a George Lucas inspired movie title with players returning from various ailments. Bengals wide receiver A.J. Green and Andrew Whitworth returned to practice. However, their work was limited to individual drills (Green didn't participate during any contact work), but no 11-on-11 work.

It's an easing-in process for both players, who are aiming to play against the Dallas Cowboys during the third preseason game (aka, the dress rehearsal). Bengals cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick, who has been resting since the team's 34-10 win on Thursday, also returned to practice.

Vinnie Rey, who suffered a suspected PCL injury last week, returned to practice with linebacker Emmanuel Lamur (hamstring) and rookie offensive tackle Reid Fragel (knee), both of whom \missed time; Lamur only a few sessions, Fragel far more. Cornerback Brandon Ghee (head) and tight end Alex Smith (knee) returned to practice after Cincinnati's preseason opener.

Brandon Thompson (knee) remains out but is aiming to make his return soon, targeting the Dallas Cowboys next week. Thompson needs to think about rushing back because he's by no means a certainty -- though there's really no competition on the roster to suggest otherwise, which might be his saving grace.

Andrew Hawkins will be out for some time with an ankle injury.

Fullback Chris Pressley (knee), quarterback Zac Robinson (elbow), and running back Bernard Scott (knee) are still on the team's physically unable to perform list and there's no indication that they're going to be ready any time soon.