Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase attended practice on Thursday but, for the second consecutive day, did not participate in any activities. Arriving 17 minutes late and dressed in street clothes, Chase’s absence from drills continues amid ongoing discussions about his contract extension. Head coach Zac Taylor stated that Chase has been involved in all team meetings and is well-prepared, having a solid understanding of the playbook after three years with the team.
During Thursday’s practice, Bengals owner Mike Brown was spotted on a golf cart near Chase, but it is reported that the two did not engage in conversation while the media was present. Earlier in the week, Taylor expressed optimism about Chase’s participation in the season opener against the New England Patriots on September 8, although he later took a more cautious approach, emphasizing a day-to-day evaluation of Chase’s situation.
Despite missing practice time, Taylor confirmed that Chase is fully healthy and reassured that the wide receiver’s experience will enable him to contribute effectively even without extensive practice reps. The Bengals organization has indicated a commitment to negotiating a contract extension for Chase, who is considered a vital player alongside quarterback Joe Burrow.
If an extension isn’t reached, Chase remains under contract for two more seasons after the Bengals exercised his fifth-year option for 2025. As the season opener approaches, the Bengals have only four practices left before facing the Patriots.