CINCINNATI -- After missing three of the past four games due to injury, tight end Tyler Eifert trotted on to the practice field Wednesday and declared himself concussion-free and ready to play Sunday against the Baltimore Ravens.
Eifert has 48 receptions this season for 564 yards and 12 touchdowns, which led the NFL for a few weeks prior to him suffering a concussion in a loss to Pittsburgh on Dec. 13.
For the first time since he took over for injured starter Andy Dalton, quarterback AJ McCarron will have one of his primary weapons at his disposal in Eifert, who creates matchup problems and frees up space for the Bengals' other talents receivers including A.J. Green and Marvin Jones.
Eifert has touchdown receptions in seven games this season and three or more touchdowns in four games.
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--McCarron said he expects to play on Sunday against the Baltimore Ravens despite straining his left wrist trying to recover a fumbled snap on the game's final play this past week.
"I'm just doing what the training staff's telling me," said McCarron. "Taking it day-by-day. Yeah (ready to go). I'm practicing. I don't have any concerns. I've been pretty fortunate."
McCarron practiced Wednesday without issue. In three games subbing for injured starter Andy Dalton, McCarron has passed for 694 yards and four touchdowns with two interceptions.
The Bengals' backup quarterback for now is Keith Wenning. Journeyman Mike Kafka was signed to the practice squad on Tuesday.
--Dalton worked out on the side during Wednesday's practice, his first activity since fracturing his right thumb in a loss to the Steelers on Dec. 13. He didn't throw any passes but simulated drop backs and footwork. Dalton still is wearing a cast on his hand.
--S George Iloka returned to practice Wednesday, albeit in a limited role. Iloka aggravated a groin injury on Dec. 13 against Pittsburgh and has not played since.
