The 2021 No. 5 overall NFL draft pick seems to be in dire straits. The Cincinnati Bengals star wideout, Ja’Marr Chase is a game-time decision for Sunday’s opener against the Patriots amid an ongoing contract dispute. But he is willing to play without an extension. Sign for the Bengals’ fans! Chase, listed as questionable, may decide last minute, while fellow receiver Tee Higgins is doubtful with a hamstring injury.

The Cincinnati Bengals could be without star wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase for their Week 1 matchup against the Patriots. Despite wanting a new contract, Chase and the Bengals haven’t reached a deal yet. Chase expressed frustration, especially after seeing players like CeeDee Lamb and Brandon Aiyuk secure extensions. “I wanted it done by the start of the season,” Chase admitted, in a media confrontation. But at the same time, also confirmed he’d play if no agreement was reached.

However, his availability is in question after waking up with an illness on Saturday. While the wingman mentioned feeling better as the day progressed, it’s still unclear if he’ll suit up for the game. Adding to the uncertainty, Chase has been in and out of practice throughout training camp.

Ja’Marr Chase is still waiting on his big payday from the Cincinnati Bengals, as the star wide receiver plays through his rookie contract. The Bengals picked up his fifth-year option, meaning he’s set to earn $9.8 million this season and $21.8 million in 2025. But Chase has made it clear he’s looking for a new deal — one that could potentially make him the highest-paid receiver in the NFL. Despite being under his rookie deal, Chase’s patience is running thin. As of now, the Bengals and Chase are “in reach” of an agreement, but no contract has been signed just yet.

Reportedly aiming for a contract in the $160 million range, Chase is watching as his peers, like Justin Jefferson and CeeDee Lamb, sign massive extensions. “It’s kind of tough,” Chase said, referring to the waiting game for his new deal. Fans are anxiously waiting for the official inactive list, hoping Burrow’s favorite target can play a significant role, even if he isn’t “100 percent.”

Ja’Marr Chase voices frustration as Bengals struggles, in week 1 against Patriots

The first week of the NFL season brought a major upset as the New England Patriots stunned Joe Burrow and the Cincinnati Bengals with a 16-10 win. This led to eliminating nearly half of Yahoo Sports survivor pool entries. The Pats, led by head coach Jerod Mayo in his debut, took control early with a 10-0 halftime lead, aided by Rhamondre Stevenson’s 3-yard touchdown run. Joey Slye added two field goals in the second half, and the Patriots’ defense held the Bengals’ offense in check, limiting Burrow to 164 passing yards.

Ja’Marr Chase, despite a solid performance expressed frustration with missed opportunities. Cincinnati’s lone touchdown came from Zach Moss in the third quarter, but post that no comeback at all. This loss adds to Bengals’ struggles under head coach Zac Taylor in early-season games, as the Bengals are now 1-10 in their first two weeks under his leadership.

Amid the loss, Chase caught all six of his targets for 62 yards. Seemingly, he deflected questions about his limited targets back to head coach Zac Taylor saying, “You’ve gotta ask Zac.”

Looking ahead, the Patriots will host the Seattle Seahawks, while the Bengals face a tough challenge against the Kansas City Chiefs.