It looks like the Cincinnati Bengals will have star receiver Ja’Marr Chase available for their season opener, despite ongoing contract negotiations. Chase, who had been absent from recent practices as he seeks a new deal, was spotted back on the field Wednesday, suited up in his uniform and helmet.
While there has been no official word on whether any progress has been made between Chase and the Bengals regarding a contract extension, his return to practice signals his likely participation in Sunday’s opener against the New England Patriots.
Earlier in the day, Bengals head coach Zac Taylor played coy when asked about Chase’s status, simply responding, “We’ll see,” when questioned about whether the wideout would take the field.
Ja’Marr Chase, here for the first practice of the game week. pic.twitter.com/UEqvNLTwcK
— Ben Baby (@Ben_Baby) September 4, 2024
Chase is coming off another impressive season, where he racked up 100 catches for 1,216 yards and seven touchdowns, despite the absence of quarterback Joe Burrow for the final seven games due to a torn ACL. Chase’s stellar performance earned him Pro Bowl selections in each of his three NFL seasons, and he was named AP Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2021.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler recently reported that the Bengals have ramped up their efforts to secure a new contract for Chase, with discussions focused on making him one of the highest-paid wide receivers in the league. As the Bengals prepare to kick off their season, securing a long-term deal for Chase remains a priority for the team as they look to keep their offensive powerhouse intact.