National Football League

Bengals WR Hawkins returns to practice

Published Oct. 23, 2013 5:51 p.m. ET

foxsports

Bengals receiver Andrew Hawkins has returned to practice, starting a three-week window before the team must decide whether to return him to the active roster or leave him on injured reserve.

Hawkins severely sprained his left ankle while making a diving catch during training camp and went on injured reserve with a designation he could return midway through the season. He was back at practice Wednesday.

The Bengals (5-2) have a two-game lead in the AFC North heading into their game Sunday against the New York Jets (4-3).

Hawkins played in 14 games last season and finished third on the team with 51 catches and 533 yards. Getting Hawkins back would give the Bengals another option in their already diverse offense.

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AP NFL website: www.pro32.ap.org