Taylor: Chase will be in Bengals' lineup for Week 1

Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor says star wideout Ja'Marr Chase will play in the team's season opener against the New England Patriots on Sept. 8.

Asked specifically if Chase was going to play in Week 1, Taylor said "yes," according to the Cincinnati Enquirer's Kelsey Conway.

Chase missed most of training camp and all three of the team's preseason games while holding out for a new contract. The Bengals receiver reported to camp and attended practices but was a non-participant in on-field drills. The 24-year-old is considered the next wideout in line to earn a lucrative new deal after Justin Jefferson, CeeDee Lamb, and A.J. Brown all landed large extensions.

Chase did, however, take part in practice on Sunday and intends to participate in all the team's on-field sessions this week.

Taylor acknowledged that it's good to see the three-time Pro Bowler back on the practice 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 remaining on his rookie contract, including a fifth-year option that's expected to be worth around $21.8 million, per Over the Cap.

The 2021 fifth overall pick emerged as one of top players at his position over the past three seasons. He recorded 100 catches, 1,216 yards, and seven touchdowns in 2023 and earned his third consecutive Pro Bowl nod.