Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor confirmed that Ja’Marr Chase will play in the team’s season opener against the New England Patriots on September 8.
When asked directly if Chase would be available for Week 1, Taylor responded with a definitive “yes,” as reported by the Cincinnati Enquirer’s Kelsey Conway.
Chase, who had been absent for most of training camp and all three preseason games while negotiating a new contract, returned to the team but did not participate in on-field drills. The 24-year-old wide receiver is widely seen as the next in line for a substantial contract extension, following recent deals signed by Justin Jefferson, CeeDee Lamb, and A.J. Brown.
On Sunday, Chase participated in practice and is expected to take part in all on-field sessions leading up to the season opener. Taylor expressed optimism about having the three-time Pro Bowler back on the field.
“I think it gives you the visual of what it’s going to look and feel like for us,” Taylor said, according to ESPN’s Ben Baby. “It’s been good to get him back in the mix the last couple of days.”
Chase has two years left on his rookie contract, including a fifth-year option projected to be worth approximately $21.8 million, according to Over the Cap. Selected as the fifth overall pick in 2021, Chase has quickly established himself as one of the top wide receivers in the NFL. In the 2023 season, he recorded 100 receptions for 1,216 yards and seven touchdowns, earning his third consecutive Pro Bowl selection.
