Robert Griffin III takes another step toward return to Browns lineup

PHILADELPHIA, PA - SEPTEMBER 11: Fletcher Cox #91 of the Philadelphia Eagles sacks quarterback Robert Griffin III #10 of the Cleveland Browns during the third quarter at Lincoln Financial Field on September 11, 2016 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Eagles defeated the Browns 29-10. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images)

PHILADELPHIA, PA - SEPTEMBER 11: Fletcher Cox #91 of the Philadelphia Eagles sacks quarterback Robert Griffin III #10 of the Cleveland Browns during the third quarter at Lincoln Financial Field on September 11, 2016 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Eagles defeated the Browns 29-10. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images)

Could the Bengals get a close-up look at Robert Griffin III?

That grew more likely Tuesday when the Browns announced the quarterback has been cleared for contact in practice.

He has been out since breaking a bone in his left (non-throwing) shoulder in the season opener but returned to practice in a limited capacity last week.

The winless Browns are off this week and play host to the struggling Bengals on Dec. 11.

The 2011 Heisman Trophy winner and 2012 AP NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year signed a two-year contract with Cleveland in the offseason.

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