Cincinnati Bengals WR Ja’Marr Chase’s Week 1 status remains uncertain as he continues to sit out of practice while negotiating a long-term contract extension.
The talented wide receiver, a three-time Pro Bowler, is entering the fourth year of his rookie contract. He aims to secure a significant deal akin to those recently signed by former LSU teammate Justin Jefferson of the Minnesota Vikings (four years, $140 million) and CeeDee Lamb of the Dallas Cowboys (four years, $136 million).
Chase has participated sporadically during training camp. A recent video shared on X shows him in street clothes, actively assisting his teammates with wide receiver drills, yet he did not don his uniform for full participation.
Bengals head coach Zac Taylor informed reporters that the team is in a “day-to-day” scenario regarding Chase’s involvement. He emphasized that the Bengals are prepared to compete against the New England Patriots this Sunday, regardless of whether Chase is on the field.
With only six days and three practices remaining before the 2024 season opener, Taylor has not clarified if the 24-year-old wideout will participate in the home game. He reiterated on Monday, “We’ll just take it day to day.”
When questioned about the likelihood of Chase taking snaps without prior practice, Taylor stated, “It’s impossible for me to say with 100% conviction, but I feel good about the shape that he’s in.”
Chase, who was the fifth overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, has made the Pro Bowl in each of his three seasons. He earned the AP Offensive Rookie of the Year award and was named a second-team All-Pro in 2021.
Last season, Chase achieved 1,216 receiving yards and seven touchdowns, bringing his NFL career totals to 3,717 receiving yards and 29 touchdowns. As negotiations continue, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if he can take the field in the upcoming game.
