Wednesday morning practice notes

Coach Marvin Lewis raved about the first-week camp performance by middle linebacker Ahmad Brooks. "Pleased," Lewis said. "He now understands where everybody else (on defense) is supposed to be and now he's able to put them in place. I hear him calling out adjustments from the sideline.

"Physically, they don't put guys together like that, 270 pounds and to be that fast."

The Bengals practiced kickoff coverage in the morning practice. A year ago, Brooks had to be convinced how important special teams are in the NFL.

"Now, here he is, our projected starting middle linebacker, working as though he's trying to earn a job on the team."

Lewis, asked about college free agent tight end Daniel Coats, said the former BYU star has a chance to make the team. Lewis also said he anticipates a strong season from fourth-year free safety Madieu Williams.

In practice, the Bengals continue to stress the run game.

On the lower stadium field, several players worked out under the eye of rehab specialists: left tackle Levi Jones (knee), defensive end Frostee Rucker (leg), cornerback Johnathan Joseph (foot), fullback Jeremi Johnson (hamstring) and cornerback Blue Adams (foot).

On the upper field, where practice was held, fullback Stan White (ankle) was in a walking boot. Tackle Adam Kieft was given a morning off practice.

Lewis said he was pleased with the efficiency and sharpness to the morning practice.

The team will be on the field from 7 to 9 p.m. today.