Cincinnati Bengals

The Bengals still have several intriguing position battles and a solid group of young players pushing for either expanded roles or roster spots.

But Cincinnati has had numerous injuries to players on both sides of the ball, and one of the

league’s most talented and deepest rosters has taken a hit. First-round CB William Jack

son III is out until at least November after tearing a chest muscle. Fourth-round DT An

drew Billings needs knee surgery, and he’s likely to miss the season. WR Brandon LaFell is out for at least a few weeks with a torn ligament in his hand, and he and Pro Bowl TE Tyler Eifert hope to make it back for the Sept. 11 regular season opener.

Second-year OT Jake Fisher, projected to be the team’s top backup at several spots, started last week’s preseason game and sprained an ankle. Fisher started that game at right tackle in place of Cedric Ogbuehi, who was out with a toe injury.

Rookie watch: Second-round WR Tyler Boyd continues not only to impress but to solidify a spot in the rotation, if not the starting lineup. The Bengals came to camp wanting Boyd to learn the slot position, but he’s also developed as a deep ball threat. Free agent losses made wide receiver the team’s thinnest position, but Boyd looks like an instant impact player.

Noteworthy: K Mike Nugent missed a field goal for the second consecutive preseason game last week. Nugent probably isn’t in danger of losing his job, but kicker is not a position the Bengals thought would be an area of concern. ... S Derron Smith has been one of the most impressive players in camp. Even if he can’t crack the starting lineup, he’s earned a spot in nickel packages and on special teams.