Marvin Jones dealing with hamstring injury; may return next week

The Bengals don't believe the injury keeping Marvin Jones out of practice is anything serious and believe he could be back sometime next week.

The injury was revealed today to be a hamstring injury after the team initially called in "leg soreness." With Jones having missed four consecutive practices after sitting out Friday, it's all but certain he won't suit up for Saturday's mock game, the team's first live scrimmage of this year's training camp.

With an off day Sunday, it's hopeful Jones should be ready to come back sometime next week before the preseason opener against the Giants a week from today.

Marvin Jones' hamstring is the issue. He's just going through some soreness. His body is still getting used to constant football #Bengals

— Coley Harvey (@ColeyHarvey) August 8, 2015

Hue on Marvin Jones: "I think we’ll get him out soon. I really do. He’ll be fine." #Bengals

— Jay Morrison (@JayMorrisonCMG) August 8, 2015

Marvin Jones could be back sometime next week. #Bengals

— Coley Harvey (@ColeyHarvey) August 8, 2015

Jones will need to return Monday at the earliest if he wants to suit up for next Friday's preseason game against New York. He's already missed four consecutive days and that will likely become five after Saturday. If he misses Monday, that would be six straight days missed with just two practices next Tuesday and Wednesday before Friday's game.

At this point, whenever Jones comes back, I wouldn't expect to see him next Friday unless it's only for a series. The Bengals are clearly going to be extra cautious with Jones after losing him to foot and ankle injuries sustained in practice last year.