Less than 24 hours after Cincinnati Bengals Coach Zac Taylor assured reporters that star wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase would be practicing this week, Chase was notably absent from Wednesday's practice session. Taylor acknowledged his earlier statement and described the situation as day-to-day, emphasizing that Chase's status remains uncertain.

Despite participating in lighter practices earlier in the week, Chase did not join his teammates for the team's more traditional game week practice on Wednesday. He arrived at the team's indoor practice bubble wearing regular clothes, signaling his inability to participate. The three-time Pro Bowl selection did not address the media following his absence.

Taylor clarified that Chase is still in good health, a claim the wide receiver has maintained since his absence from the team's mandatory minicamp in July. With two years remaining on his rookie contract, including a lucrative fifth-year option in 2025 worth $21.8 million, Chase's availability for the upcoming season opener against the New England Patriots on September 8 is now in question.

Taylor's optimism regarding Chase's potential Week 1 return was dampened by Wednesday's developments. The coach noted that if the wide receiver does not practice this week, he could still function effectively in the opening game, but refrained from speculating on an exact timeline for his return. Taylor emphasized the importance of taking each day as it comes and continuing to evaluate Chase's progress.

Bengals center Ted Karras expressed his understanding of both the team's and Chase's positions in the ongoing contract negotiations. Chase is aiming to secure a contract that outpaces the five-year, $35 million annual deal with $110 million in guaranteed money that was signed by the Minnesota Vikings' Justin Jefferson during the offseason. Karras remarked that there are no hard feelings among the players and hoped that a resolution would be reached soon for the benefit of Chase and the team.

As the Bengals gear up for their season opener, the absence of Ja'Marr Chase raises concerns about the team's offensive firepower. All eyes will now be on the ongoing negotiations between the talented wide receiver and the organization, with fans eagerly anticipating his return to the field. Until then, the Bengals will prepare for their opening game, aware of the impact Chase's absence could have on their performance.