Bengals vs. Jets: Hawkins returns, has a roster exemption for three weeks

Bengals wide receiver Andrew Hawkins told reporters on Wednesday morning that the plan was for him to begin practicing this week.

And he did.

According to reporters monitoring the first 30 minutes of practice on Wednesday, Hawkins suited up and practiced for the first time since injuring his ankle during training camp. Hawkins, still on the Injured Reserve list with a designation to return, was eligible to begin practicing last week. His first opportunity to play will be next week's Thursday Night game against the Miami Dolphins.

The team also announced that Hawkins has a three-week window as a roster exemption before they're forced to make a decision on him (53-man roster, release, IR).

However, cornerback Terence Newman, wide receiver Marvin Jones, defensive tackle Devon Still and linebacker Rey Maualuga sat out on Wednesday. Jones, Still and Maualuga suffered injuries against the Lions; Jones eventually returned while Still and Maualuga left the game.

As for the Jets, tight end Jeff Cumberland and wide receiver Santonio Holmes sat on Wednesday with hamstrings. Rex Ryan told reporters that he believes Cumberland should be ready for the game.