What the Pats said about preparing for Ja’Marr Chase amid holdout

Bengals receiver Ja’Marr Chase, who missed nearly all of training camp while holding out over a potential contract extension, returned to practice on Wednesday.

Whether or not the three-time Pro Bowler will play in Cincinnati’s season opener against the Patriots on Sunday remains a significant storyline in the lead up to the action.

Bengals coach Zac Taylor said on Tuesday that Chase’s status is day-to-day as the sides negotiate. Chase was seen participating in team drills according to multiple reports.

New England coach Jerod Mayo said the Patriots are preparing as if Chase will play.

“I think you have to prepare that way,” Mayo said. “If he doesn’t play we’ll treat it like an injury. He’s a premier player in this league without a doubt and we have to be ready.”

The 6-foot, 201-pound receiver has topped the 1,000 yard mark in each of his first three seasons. Last season was his first time hitting triple-digits for catches, hauling in 100 caches for 1,216 yards and seven touchdowns. Chase received a team-high 145 targets last season, which was 47 more than the next closest receiver on the list.

Chase accounted for around a quarter of Cincinnati’s targets, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns last season.

“He just has all the tools,” cornerback Christian Gonzalez said. “He’s fast strong, physical, smart, knows the game really well and he knows how to get open. That’s what he does. It’s always fun to just take on these challenges, take on the superstars of the league. That’s what you dream of.”

The pairing of Chase and Tee Higgins gives Cincinnati a “two-headed” monster, Gonzalez said. The 6-foot-4, 220-pound receiver brings length and size to the table, plus a knack for contested catches.

“Another complete, full receiver who can run all his routes, he can go up and make contested catches, great receiver,” said Gonzalez.

Gonzalez said learning on veterans who were around the last time New England played Cincinnati two years ago for any small tips they can provide has been a plus.

One such veteran defensive back, Jonathan Jones, says he believes Chase will suit up to play on Sunday.

“I think you just prepare for him to be there,” Jones said. “I think that’s the best case scenario is to be prepared, prepare for him to be there and prepare for the guys in the second rows as well. If I had my bet on it, he’ll be there.”