Ja'Marr Chase Rumors: Bengals WR 'Definitely Willing' to Sit W1 amid Contract Buzz

The Cincinnati Bengals could be without star wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase during the team's season-opening clash against the New England Patriots on Sunday.

According to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, Chase is "definitely willing" to skip Week 1 as he waits for a long-term contract extension from the Bengals.

The 24-year-old was holding in during training camp as he waited for a new deal and was recently a limited participant in practice on Thursday. He's currently listed as questionable against New England on Cincinnati's injury report.

Chase still has two seasons remaining on his rookie contract after the Bengals picked up his fifth-year option in April, but he's eligible to receive an extension.

Although an agreement hasn't been reached, the former LSU standout confirmed on Friday that both sides are getting closer.

"We're pretty close," Chase said, per Geoff Hobson of the team's official website. "A few numbers need to be moved around, and changed in some places. I'll say we're pretty close."

Even if he doesn't receive a new deal, he could suit up against the Patriots. Chase said that he would still be willing to play during the season if an agreement isn't finalized, but he'll have the final say on his status for Sunday (via ESPN's Ben Baby).

"It's my decision," he said.

The three-time Pro Bowl wideout has helped the Bengals make two trips to the AFC Championship Game since he was drafted with the No. 5 overall pick in 2021, including a Super Bowl 56 appearance. Chase has racked up 268 catches for 3,717 yards and 29 touchdowns in 45 games throughout his career.

He'll be needed even more than usual against New England, as wideout Tee Higgins is listed as doubtful due to a hamstring issue.

Chase's availability with or without a new deal will become clearer as the Bengals' Week 1 contest approaches on Sunday, with kickoff at 1 p.m. ET.