The Sports Xchange

CINCINNATI — The Cincinnati Bengals have high hopes for tight end Tyler Eifert, and they are counting on him staying healthy. Last season, Eifert played in just one quarter of one game because of a dislocated elbow, and it affected the offense.

Eifert, wearing a brace on the elbow, has been a standout in this season’s training camp as he looks to put 2014 behind him.

Said offensive coordinator Hue Jackson, “He’s a first-round draft pick (in 2013). He has ability. He’s working through some things, still growing and learning. He’s going to be a huge part of what we do.”

As he gains experience, the Bengals hope to utilize him in variety of ways. On three consecutive plays at a recent practice, Eifert was at tight end on one play, in the slot at another and outside on a third.

“We got good looks for him and he got open,” quarterback Andy Dalton said that day. “It’s nice having him out there. He’s a smart player who has a great feel for the game. We’ve been able to hook up for some big plays. Go back and look at his college tape and he’s splitting out wide, jumping over guys and making catches. We feel like he matches up well with all the guys he’s going to face.”

Very few defenders have been able to stop him during practice, which has everyone looking forward to the games.

As Jackson added, “I’m trying to re-establish some things with that group. He’s been out and the more those guys play I think we all recognize the benefits of him being out there with the unit, the more it’s going to help A.J. (Green), Mo Sanu and the rest of the guys. That’s what happens when you feel comfortable spreading the ball all around the place. So then Andy’s confidence goes through the roof. The more playmakers you have the better for your team.”