The Bengals are still preparing for Ja’Marr Chase to potentially be out Sunday.
As of now, it appears the Cincinnati Bengals will have Ja’Marr Chase ready for Sunday’s opener vs. the New England Patriots, but it’s far from a given.
Following an extended hold-in that crept into this week, Chase returned to practice on Wednesday, a good sign that he plans to play this week, even if a contract extension is not reached.
However, the Bengals are still preparing for the scenario of Chase not being available this week.
Following Wednesday’s practice, Joe Burrow shared some insight into Chase’s return. Burrow said that Chase looked like he was ready for live game action. However, Burrow added that the team does have separate game plans for Chase being in or out on Sunday.
Burrow also admitted that Chase hasn’t said if he will play or not.
Joe Burrow confirms the Bengals have separate game plans for Week 1 Sunday against New England— one if Chase is available and one if he isn’t active.
On Chase’s physical shape: “He is ready to go.”
— Charlie Clifford (@char_cliff) September 4, 2024
Burrow on Chase playing: I don’t have any expectations. We haven’t had those discussions.
— Charlie Goldsmith (@CharlieG__) September 4, 2024
Even though Chase has returned to practice, there’s still a chance he opts to sit out Sunday if a deal isn’t reached by then, so it’s a smart move for the Bengals to game plan for both scenarios.
Let’s just hope the two sides reach a contract agreement and we don’t have to worry about the scenario of Chase sitting out.
Joe Burrow, on Ja’Marr Chase:
“Our relationship hasn’t changed. I’m not getting involved in his business.”
Here’s a clip from Joe’s press conference— pic.twitter.com/rWK8FvCUyh
— Caleb Noe (@CalebNoeTV) September 4, 2024
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