Ja’Marr Chase Unlikely to Strike a Deal with Cincinnati Bengals Before Opener

The chances of wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase reaching a deal with the Cincinnati Bengals before Sunday’s opener against the New England Patriots are slim, according to sources close to the situation. Chase’s availability for the game is still up in the air, as he is listed as questionable and a final decision on his status has not been made yet.

Chase has faced setbacks leading up to the game, with a contract dispute that kept him out of training camp and an illness that landed him on the injury report on Saturday. Despite these hurdles, the Bengals initially planned to have him play against the Patriots but are prepared to adjust if necessary.

Player’s Decision

Chase, a three-time Pro Bowler, expressed his willingness to take the field without a contract extension during his first public comments since the end of last season. While negotiations seemed promising, he acknowledged that a deal might not be reached before the game and emphasized that the final decision to play rested with him.

Teammate’s Injury

Adding to the Bengals’ concerns is the doubtful status of wide receiver Tee Higgins, who is dealing with a hamstring injury sustained during practice. Head coach Zac Taylor confirmed that Higgins did not participate in Friday’s practice, leaving the team without one of its key offensive weapons for the opener.

In light of the uncertainties surrounding Chase and Higgins, the Bengals have elevated wide receiver Kendric Pryor to provide depth for the game. The team is aiming to secure only its second season opener victory in Taylor’s tenure, with the lone win coming in 2021 against the Minnesota Vikings.

The Cincinnati Bengals are facing a challenging situation as they prepare to take on the New England Patriots in their season opener. With key players like Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins dealing with contract negotiations and injuries, the team’s offense could be significantly impacted. However, the Bengals are adapting their game plan and roster to address these challenges, showing resilience and determination as they aim to start the season on a positive note.