Bengals' Chase 'game-time' decision amid contract talks

Bengals star wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase is labeling himself a "game-time decision" for Cincinnati's Week 1 contest against the New England Patriots, the wide receiver told reporters Friday, including Kelsey Conway of the Cincinnati Enquirer.

Chase added that he's "100%" healthy but will "probably" be "limited" if he plays Sunday after missing most of training camp and all of preseason while seeking a new contract.

The Bengals listed Chase as questionable on their final Week 1 injury report, along with wide receiver Tee Higgins, who's doubtful due to a hamstring injury and didn't practice Friday.

Despite pointing out that his deadline to ink a new pact was Friday, Chase said a contract is "in reach." And although his status for Sunday appears questionable, he added that he plans to play this season even if a deal isn't done.

Chase practiced Friday after being a limited participant Wednesday and Thursday.

"We'll see," head coach Zac Taylor said Friday when asked about Chase's availability, according to Ben Baby of ESPN.

Chase has two years remaining on his rookie deal after the Bengals drafted him No. 5 overall in 2021. A slew of wide receivers signed lucrative deals this offseason, including star Justin Jefferson, who reset the market with a four-year, $140-million extension that included $110 million guaranteed.

"If I want to beat Justin, I'm gonna beat the shit out of Justin. Not by a penny, brother," Chase said when asked if he wanted a cent more than Jefferson's contract.

He added: "I know I'm the best wide receiver in the league."