Bengals getting second opinion on Andrew Hawkins' injury

The uncertainty regarding Andrew Hawkins' injury might sound the trumpets of concern soon. If not already. After suffering, what Hawkins described as a high ankle sprain, during Thursday's practice, the third-year slot receiver arrived at Paul Brown Stadium the next day with a protective boot on his left leg and crutches. The coaching staff isn't even sure that Hawkins will be ready for the regular season opener against the Chicago Bears on Sept. 8.

Head coach Marvin Lewis spoke with reporters on Sunday, prior to the team's walkthrough practice before departing for Atlanta. When asked about Hawkins' injury, Lewis only called it an ankle sprain and that the team is getting a second opinion on how to treat the injury.

Hawkins definitely won't play this Thursday when the Bengals open the preseason on the road in Atlanta. Based on the team's uncertainty regarding the nature of Hawkins' injury and treatment, it's a safe bet that Hawkins won't appear in any preseason games this season.