Chiefs to Benefit if Bengals' Major Drama Carries Into Week 2

The Kansas City Chiefs begin the 2024 NFL season against the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday. Unfortunately, their schedule doesn't get any easier in Week 2 as they host Joe Burrow and the Cincinnati Bengals. This tough slate to start the campaign in pursuit of the historic three-peat may have gotten a little easier with the latest news out of the Bengals training camp.

The Bengals have been embroiled in a contract drama with their star wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase all offseason. Entering his fourth year in the league, the three-time Pro Bowler wants a contract extension that makes him the highest-paid receiver in the NFL. The Bengals front office has been playing hardball so far, forcing Chase to hold out.

On Monday, the former LSU star appeared in street clothes and didn't practice with the team, putting his status for Week 1 against the Patriots in serious jeopardy.

NFL News: Bengals WR Ja'Marr Chase Continues to Skip Practice

At this point, it's unclear whether Chase can even be ready for Week 1 even if the contract dispute is resolved tomorrow. When asked about the situation, Bengals head coach Zac Taylor said, "It's impossible for me to say with 100% conviction but I feel good with the shape he's in".

We will have a better idea about Chase's availability on Wednesday once the official game-week practices start. Whether he suits up against the Patriots and how much he plays on Sunday will clarify things for the Chiefs as they prepare for their Week 2 matchup.

For now, however, the Chiefs are focused on starting the season with a win over a fellow Super Bowl contender. On FanDuel Sportsbook, they are currently -152 favorites to defeat the Ravens on Thursday.

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