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The Cincinnati Bengals will likely be without third-year receiver Marvin Jones for the first three games of the 2014 NFL season. This according to a report from NFL Network reporter, Albert Breer, who reports the Bengals "hope" Jones is back after the first month of the season.
Bengals' hope right now is to have WR Marvin Jones back after their Week 4 bye. If it happens, he returns to play v. the Patriots on Oct. 5.
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) August 12, 2014
Head coach Marvin Lewis has only said he expects Jones to miss "a few weeks," but if the reports of Jones' broken foot are true, it's more likely to be five-six weeks.
Would be stunning if Marvin Jones returned within 4 weeks. 5th metatarsal recovery for a WR should be at least 6 weeks.
— Adam Caplan (@caplannfl) August 11, 2014
I can't find any comparables to Marvin Jones that have come back in less than six weeks. Lots that have taken longer.
— Will Carroll (@injuryexpert) August 11, 2014
Comps for M Jones — Julio Jones, Hakeem Nicks, Cody Lattimer. Is it irony that this kind of injury often called a Jones fracture?
— Will Carroll (@injuryexpert) August 11, 2014
Spoke to a rival coach about Andy Dalton last week. "Marvin Jones is the X factor for Andy." Marvin Jones, now, out with a broken foot.
— P. Schrager (@PSchrags) August 11, 2014
FOX Sports 1's NFL insider Mike Garafolo also reports Jones is expected to miss at least six weeks.
The odds don't favor Jones being on the field before the Bengals' Week 4 bye. His debut could come on Sunday Night Football vs. the New England Patriots in Week 5.
At least he'll possibly be back for then, as that game is going to be an 'all hands on deck' type of game. Cincinnati is good enough to beat the Ravens, Falcons and Titans, their first three opponents.