It's looking more and more likely that the Bengals will be without the services of Vontaze Burfict for a second straight game. He missed Thursday's practice after not practicing Monday or Wednesday. Butch Hobson doesn't think he'll play versus New England.

Burfict not dressed today for practice — Geoff Hobson (@GeoffHobsonCin) October 2, 2014

He's in sweats, no helmet and that would seem to suggest not playing — Geoff Hobson (@GeoffHobsonCin) October 2, 2014

The Pro Bowl linebacker still hasn't received clearance to return to practice after suffering a concussion two weeks ago against the Falcons.

Making matters worse, it was his second concussion in the span of eight days, after Burfict had one in the opener against Baltimore. The Bengals may be willing to play it safe and not play Burfict this week vs. New England.

Wide receiver Marvin Jones also missed practice Thursday after being held out Wednesday with what was called a tweaked ankle. He too is looking unlikely vs. the Pats after missing much of the past two months after breaking his foot in training camp.

Hobson doesn't see Jones, Burfict or starting guard Kevin Zeitler playing Sunday.

Sunday inactive list? Tez, MJones, Zeitler, Thompson, Clarke, Johnson, Lewis-Harris — Geoff Hobson (@GeoffHobsonCin) October 2, 2014

Zeitler is dealing with a calf injury that could hold him out a few more weeks. That means the Bengals could be down as many as three starters when they hit the field Sunday. Even though New England is struggling, it will be tough to account for the loss of those players.