A.J. Green Returns From Injury

As one of the best young receivers in the NFL, A.J. Green can almost always be counted on for big offensive production – that is, when he is healthy.

For the Cincinnati Bengals to take the next big step in their recent resurgence and contend for a title, there’s no doubt they’ll need him on the field, but after missing three weeks with a bruised knee, Green had many Bengals fans, prospective fantasy football players and bettors concerned. Now, those same folks may be able to breathe a sigh of relief, as he has returned to practice this week.

According to ESPN.com, Green rejoined the team on Wednesday in a limited capacity and was only allowed to participate in non-contact drills. Still, it’s a great sign for the Bengals, who are being overly cautious with Green for now to ensure he’ll be ready for the regular season kickoff.

“I am back to 100 percent,” Green said. “They just don’t want to throw me back just like this. As the days go on, I am going to work my way back into them.”

While it’s unlikely that Green will play in the Bengals’ second preseason game this weekend against Tennessee, Green wants to get in one of the preseason games to warm up and prepare for the increased physicality and intensity of games that actually count.

“I want to play,” Green said. “Just a matter of which one. So, we will see what the coaches say. I definitely want to play.”

And for Green to be fully effective once the regular season rolls around, the Bengals will want him to play in at least one preseason game as well. As a starer – and a very important one – Green’s role will be limited in a preseason game anyway, but obviously, the team still has to be careful and not risk a more serious injury.

Last season, Green racked up 1,350 yards and 11 touchdowns on 97 catches and in entering his just his third season, could be even better and brighter for the Bengals this year. Bettors and Bengal fans will definitely want to keep a close eye on his progress as the season approaches because his absence from the huddle would have a huge impact on the team’s success.