Vontaze Burfict returns to practice, but doubtful vs. Patriots; Marvin Jones also unlikely

UPDATE

The Bengals announced Vontaze Burfict, Kevin Zeitler and Marvin Jones are "doubtful" to play vs. the New England Patriots. Brandon Thompson has been ruled out. That means the Bengals will be down three starters, along with their primary defensive lineman who comes off the bench.

Margus Hunt is also listed as "questionable" after being limited Friday with a shoulder injury.

***

The Bengals got some great news on Friday, as Pro Bowl linebacker Vontaze Burfict was on the field for the final practice before the team heads to New England.

Burfict had missed the two prior practices this week, leaving his status for Sunday very much in doubt. Prior to Friday, Burfict needed clearance to return to the field and if he practiced then, there was a good chance he'd play come Sunday.

If he didn't get said clearance though and missed Friday, that would have meant he would have not practiced for three weeks. Thankfully, Burfict is back on the field, meaning there's still a chance he goes Sunday vs. the Patriots.

If Burfict doesn't play Sunday, that will leave Vincent Rey to get his second-straight start after he filled in nicely in the Week 3 win over the Tennessee Titans. The emergence of Emmanuel Lamur has also helped offset the loss of Burfict.

That's the good news. The bad news is Marvin Jones was not on the field Friday, meaning he's missed all three practices this week. That all but rules him 'out' Sunday vs. New England.