The Cincinnati Bengals are gearing up for their 2024 season opener against the New England Patriots, but there’s one big question on everyone’s mind – will Ja’Marr Chase be on the field? The star wide receiver has been holding out from the Bengals’ offseason program as he seeks a new contract from the organization.
Coach Zac Taylor had initially hoped Chase would re-join practice after a brief absence, but despite his return last week, the 24-year-old has continued to sit out. As game day approaches, Taylor addressed the media, acknowledging Chase’s contract negotiations but remaining tight-lipped about his potential availability for Week 1.
“We’ll just take it day by day,” Taylor told reporters on Monday, indicating that Chase’s status remains uncertain. Reports have surfaced claiming that Chase is looking for a deal worth just $0.01 more than the massive four-year, $140 million contract signed by Justin Jefferson of the Minnesota Vikings this offseason.
Jefferson’s new deal makes him one of the highest-paid wide receivers in the league, earning an average annual salary of $35 million, slightly edging out CeeDee Lamb of the Dallas Cowboys at $34 million. It appears that Chase is eager to secure a similar payday and join the ranks of the top earners at his position.
As the Bengals prepare to kick off their season, all eyes remain on Ja’Marr Chase and whether he will take the field against the Patriots. The standoff between player and team adds an extra layer of drama to an already highly anticipated matchup. It remains to be seen how this contract saga will unfold and impact the Bengals’ season moving forward.
