Tyler Eifert, Vontaze Burfict among Bengals not expected to play vs. Bears

The Bengals will have some key names sitting out tonight for their preseason opener against the Bears.

The team announced several backups who are not expected to play, while Bengals.com added that neither Tyler Eifert nor Vontaze Burfict should play either. That means the following players are not expected to go tonight:

• LB Vontaze Burfict
• CB Tony McRae
• CB Sojourn Shelton
• DT Josh Tupou
• DT Andrew Brown
• TE Tyler Eifert

Defensive tackle Josh Tupou sprained his MCL and is expected to miss a month of action, which will almost certainly cost him a spot on the 53-man roster.

Cornerback Sojourn Shelton tore a thumb ligament and broke a bone in his hand. He’s been seen in a cast and could be out as long as two months, likely nuking his potential to make the 53-man roster, though he was already a long shot.

Defensive tackle Andrew Brown has a hamstring injury suffered on August 1, and he hasn’t practiced since. The rookie fifth-round pick is part of a tight competition at defensive tackle and needs to get back on-the-field as soon as possible.

Cornerback Tony McRae is dealing with a right ankle injury, the extent of which is unknown. He also has slim roster chances and needs to get back on the field quickly to make an impression on the coaching staff.

Burfict and Eifert are both healthy and practicing, so holding them out tonight is more of precautionary move.

Linebacker Jordan Evans is expected to start in place of Burfict.