Ja’Marr Chase Out Vs. Patriots? This Development Sparked More Questions

The Cincinnati Bengals could very well be short-handed when they open their regular season against the New England Patriots on Sunday.

Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase has not practiced as he awaits a contract extension. Chase, who is set to enter the final year of his rookie deal, was present for practice Monday but did not participate.

Oddsmakers at FanDuel Sportsbooks on Wednesday moved the Bengals from 9.5-point home favorites to 7.5. That development caused some to question whether or not bookmakers might know something about the Chase situation.

And while appearing on the “Pat McAfee Show” on Tuesday, ESPN’s Adam Schefter indicated Chase won’t play unless the contract extension is in place.

“If he’s going to play at all this week against New England, that deal has to get done,” Schefter told McAfee.

Bengals head coach Zac Taylor told reporters earlier this week Cincinnati would “adapt” if the star wide receiver opts to sit out. Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo on Wednesday told reporters New England is planning as if Chase will take the field.