The Cincinnati Bengals opened their season with a 16-10 loss to the New England Patriots, marking their third consecutive season-opening defeat.
Star wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase expressed frustration, not just over the loss, but with his limited involvement in the game. Chase, targeted only six times, caught all six passes for 62 yards. When questioned about the lack of targets, Chase directed criticism at head coach Zac Taylor, implying the decision was out of his control, stating, “You’ve gotta ask Zac [Taylor].”
Chase’s reduced role may be tied to his absence from team practices in recent weeks, as he negotiates a new contract. While still under his rookie deal, with two years remaining, Chase is seeking a lucrative extension that would place him among the league’s highest-paid receivers. He aims to join the ranks of fellow 2020 draftees CeeDee Lamb and Justin Jefferson, who signed lucrative contracts in the offseason.
Though Chase returned to practice, he refrained from participating fully, which may have influenced his limited opportunities on the field. Fellow receiver Tee Higgins missed the game due to a hamstring injury, further complicating Cincinnati’s offense.
