Jaguars TE Thomas practices in limited role, remains out

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) Jacksonville Jaguars tight end Julius Thomas has been cleared for limited practice. He still won't play for at least a few more weeks.

Thomas was on the field Wednesday for the first time since breaking a bone on the back of his right hand in the preseason opener Aug. 14.

He had surgery Sept. 1, and the Jaguars have targeted Week 4 for his return. But that could be optimistic considering coach Gus Bradley said Wednesday that Thomas will return to the hand doctor in two weeks, adding ''I think we're just waiting to see what we find out in the second evaluation.''

Thomas signed a five-year, $46 million contract, including $24 million guaranteed, to be the centerpiece of Jacksonville's receiving corps.

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