Chase and the Bengals are in heated negotiations that could extend beyond the season opener against the New England Patriots on Sunday. The LSU alumnus missed Monday’s practice, the final session before game week, and appears determined to stay out until his contract extension is resolved.
Bengals head coach Zac Taylor acknowledged that the team will need to adjust if Chase is unavailable for Week 1. “Injuries and other issues are always part of the game, so we’ll make the necessary adjustments for him,” Taylor said.
Chase is reportedly seeking to become the highest-paid wide receiver in the league and is unlikely to accept an offer below that mark. Currently, that title belongs to Justin Jefferson of the Minnesota Vikings, who secured a four-year, $140 million deal earlier this year, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in the league.
Despite having two years remaining on his rookie contract, Ja’Marr Chase has surpassed 1,000 yards in each of his first three seasons. His standout year was in 2023, when he recorded 81 catches for a career-high 1,455 yards and 13 touchdowns, earning him a third consecutive Pro Bowl selection.
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