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Bengals' Eifert running at half speed, still 'a couple of weeks' away

Andy Lyons / Getty Images Sport / Getty

The Cincinnati Bengals will have to wait at least another few games before getting their standout tight end back in the lineup.

Still recovering from ankle surgery required after an injury suffered in the Pro Bowl, Tyler Eifert told ESPN's Bob Holtzman on Thursday that he's "a couple of weeks" away from making his return.

Eifert has been working on the rehab field as the Bengals conduct their practices, and he'd told Holtzman the day prior that he's currently running at half speed.

The most recent update on his status reportedly had him targeting a return at some point between Weeks 4 and 6 of the regular season, and his steady progress would appear to indicate that such a timeline remains possible.

Eifert's eventual return will be a major addition for Cincinnati's offense. The former first-round pick established himself as an elite red-zone threat last season, falling one short of the league lead with an impressive 13 touchdowns.

C.J. Uzomah, who hauled in two receptions for 59 yards in the Bengals' season-opening win over the New York Jets, will continue to see work as the top tight end until Eifert is cleared to play.

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