Andrew Hawkins on crutches with a protective boot

Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Andrew Hawkins made an inspiring reception in front of the 6,500 fans attending Family Night during Thursday's practice. Making a diving catch, Hawkins' effort was rewarded after he suffered a high ankle sprain. The training staff checked it out, helped him off the field, and eventually carted him back to the locker room.

According to multiple reports from the team's beat writers, Andrew Hawkins is on crutches with a protective boot on his left foot.

Andrew Hawkins on crutches with this boot around his ankle: pic.twitter.com/NFu5Tom4TM

— Joe Danneman (@FOX19Joe) August 2, 2013

The boot could be a preventative measure to stabilize the ankle while the crutches are helping elevate pressure when walking. In other words, it could look worse than it is. Whether or not it's serious, Geoff Hobson with Bengals.com didn't seem to think so, saying that indications are that Hawkins could return within a few weeks.