Bengals make roster move as another Ja'Marr Chase report arrives

With uncertainty at the wide receiver position ahead of Week 1, the Cincinnati Bengals made a minor roster move on Saturday.

Another Ja’Marr Chase report went live not long after, too.

The Bengals elevated wide receiver Kendric Pryor to the active roster from the practice squad for the game against the New England Patriots. It is a response to the Chase contract standoff and Tee Higgins’ sudden hamstring setback that will likely cause him to miss the game.

As for Chase, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported that the Bengals still anticipate Chase playing in the game — but that they can change the game plan if he doesn’t, according to ESPN’s Ben Baby.

A safe report, but better than nothing. Chase told reporters on Friday during a winding interview that he would be open to playing without a contract extension, though he suggested it could be on a reduced snap count.

Some Chase would be better than no Chase for Joe Burrow’s offense while this contract drama unfolds. But the elevation of Pryor could mean hyped rookie Jermaine Burton still won’t see the field due to his issues over the summer, especially with big tight ends like Mike Gesicki able to take snaps in the slot.