Tyler Eifert, Vontaze Burfict and Adam Jones miss Bengals practice

It doesn't look like the Bengals are expecting Tyler Eifert to practice anytime soon. The second-year tight end, who was eligible to return against the Cleveland Browns on Nov. 6, continues to miss practice after suffering a dislocated elbow during the regular season opener. Word is that if Cincinnati qualifies for the postseason, Eifert could return by then (however, the pessimistic view returns for this week after broadcasting optimism last week).

Hopefully, that's not the case with linebacker Vontaze Burfict, who missed practiced on Wednesday -- it's unclear if he'll play this week, but Lewis did acknowledge that the door is open for Burfict to play this Sunday in Tampa Bay. Since having his knee scoped following Cincinnati's win over Baltimore in week nine, Burfict has missed all four games.

The Bengals have managed to win three of four with an improving defense, but the team could always use a pro bowl linebacker. However, those three wins came against teams with a combined 11-22 record and Denver, Cleveland and Pittsburgh on tap after Sunday's game against Tampa Bay.

Offensive lineman Mike Pollak and defensive end Robert Geathers got veteran's days off Wednesday, while cornerback Adam Jones also sat out, though it's unclear if his was also rest or if he's actually injured.