Bengals' Chase active Week 1 despite no new deal

The Cincinnati Bengals and wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase aren't expected to reach an agreement on a long-term deal before Sunday's season opener, sources told Adam Schefter of ESPN.

Chase is active for Sunday's contest, the team announced. Wide receiver Tee Higgins has been ruled out due to a hamstring injury after being listed as doubtful on the injury report.

The Bengals listed Chase as questionable on their injury report due to illness/rest after he woke up Saturday morning feeling sick, according to Jeremy Fowler of ESPN. The three-time Pro Bowler also sat out most of training camp while seeking a new contract.

Cincinnati included Chase in its game plan this past week, Fowler adds.

Chase has two years remaining on his rookie contract. The 24-year-old labeled himself Friday as a "game-time" decision for Cincinnati's Week 1 matchup, adding that he'll be limited in the contest if he suits up.

However, Chase said he's willing to play this season without a new deal.

Many star receivers received lucrative contacts this offseason, with Minnesota Vikings wideout Justin Jefferson resetting the market with a four-year, $140-million extension to become the highest-paid non-quarterback in the league.