of Cincinnati Bengals There is a chance that both starting wide receivers will not be able to play the full game in Week 1. New England PatriotsWide receiver Ja'Marr Chase practiced for the first time this week after being in contract negotiations all offseason. The negotiations between the two sides are reportedly very close, and Chase's practice time has been limited.
Chase has told media he will play without a contract, but his availability for the Patriots game is questionable. If he does play, he likely won't be at a full load until he's game healthy.
“It's a long process and can be quite frustrating. Don't let your emotions get in the way of your work.”
He said that if he plays at all, his availability will likely be limited and that a decision on whether he will play in the opening game will be made on game day.
Two minutes in the locker room with Ja'Marr Chase. pic.twitter.com/6nICWaYMZz
— Joe Danneman (@FOX19Joe) September 6, 2024
The news that Chase will play Sunday is good news for the Bengals, as Tee Higgins was listed as questionable, though a full game is unlikely. Chase will at least give quarterback Joe Burrow a reliable target from the outside against a strong Patriots defense.
Outside of Chase, the Bengals will be looking for players who can step up. Rookie wide receiver Jermaine Burton has struggled, and from a fantasy football standpoint, second-year player Andre Iosivas could benefit and get more targets. In deeper leagues, Trenton Irwin is also one to watch heading into Sunday. Irwin is the most experienced wide receiver in the depths behind Chase and Higgins.
With questions at the wide receiver position, coupled with the Patriots' excellent defense, Joe Burrow may be a player to avoid in a one-quarterback format in Week 1. While Burrow is one of the elite quarterbacks in the NFL, missing Higgins and Chase in a limited capacity could have a negative impact on the Bengals' passing game overall.
