Why is Ja'Marr Chase not playing tonight? Latest on Bengals WR for Week 3 NFL preseason vs. Colts

Ja'Marr Chase will not feature for the Cincinnati Bengals in their 2024 NFL preseason finale against the Indianapolis Colts on Thursday. However, fans want to know why the three-time Pro Bowler is not playing for Cincinnati, especially when there are no reports of Chase being injured.

Why is Ja'Marr Chase not playing vs. Colts?

Cincinnati Bengals WR Ja'Marr Chase (Source: Imagn)

As per reports, Ja'Marr Chase is in a contract dispute with the Bengals, which is why he won't feature against the Colts on Thursday. The wideout has not featured in any preseason games as he continues to "hold in" while trying to negotiate a deal with the Cincinnati team.

Chase has not practiced at all during this year's training camp, despite attending all but one session. On Aug. 13, Bengals coach Zac Taylor spoke about Chase's absence.

"Ja'Marr [is] day-to-day," Taylor said. "We'll take it one day a time."

Chase, who was selected by the Bengals as the No. 5 pick in 2021, has two years left on his current deal. Cincinnati exercised a fully guaranteed $21.816 million fifth-year option with the wideout for 2025.

As per reports, Chase is expected to make a fully guaranteed $4,862,679 this year, consisting of a $1.055 million base salary.

There are suggestions that Chase and his camp are looking to secure a four-year, $160 million extension with the Bengals.

NFL preseason Week 3: How to watch Bengals vs. Colts

The Bengals vs. Colts Week 3 preseason game will not be broadcast on national TV. Locals in Indianapolis can catch the matchup on WXIN (FOX/59) while those in Cincinnati can watch it on WXIX (FOX/19).

Fans can also livestream the contest on Amazon Prime Video, NFL Network or Fubo. Here are all the details on the Bengals-Colts game:

• Game: Cincinnati Bengals vs. Indianapolis Colts
• Stadium: Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio
• Date: Thursday, Aug. 22
• Start Time: 8 p.m. ET
• TV Channel: WXIN (FOX/59) for locals in Indianapolis and WXIX (FOX/19) for locals in Cincinnati
• Streaming: Amazon Prime Video, NFL Network, or Fubo