How Bengals Coach Addressed Ja’Marr Chase’s Week 1 Status

It remains to be seen if the Patriots will go up against one of the NFL’s most dynamic playmakers when they open their regular season Sunday.

Ja’Marr Chase has been “holding in” with the Bengals ahead of the 2024 campaign. The star wide receiver remains unsatisfied with his current contract, which still carries two remaining years of term. But following an offseason that saw several elite wide receivers land significant long-term extensions, Chase clearly is looking to cash in before embarking on his fourth NFL season.

Speaking with the media Wednesday, Zac Taylor was asked if Chase will suit up in Week 1 when Cincinnati hosts New England. The Bengals head coach replied with a simple “We’ll see,” per ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

Schefter on Tuesday claimed a new deal for Chase “has to get done” in order for the three-time Pro Bowl selection to play Sunday. Oddsmakers are becoming dubious about Chase’s Week 1 availability, too, as the Bengals on Wednesday moved from a 9.5- to a 7.5-point favorite.

Nonetheless, New England is preparing for the LSU product to play in the early afternoon showdown. And the Patriots shouldn’t be overwhelmed by concern if Chase is active, as the secondary arguably is New England’s greatest area of strength.