BALLER MOVE: Start
POSITIONAL VALUE: WR1
ANALYSIS: You cannot leave Ja'Marr Chase on your bench if he plays. He is an elite WR talent and belongs in every starting lineup if he steps on the field.
Unfortunately, Chase is embroiled in a contract dispute with the Cincinnati Bengals. The Bengals have reportedly submitted a "significant" offer to Chase, but as of now, any future contract remains unsigned.
From @NFLGameDay Kickoff: #Bengals WR Ja'Marr Chase will be ready to go Sunday, per QB Joe Burrow. But will he have a new contract? pic.twitter.com/ghtMUy8gmy
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 5, 2024
The good news is that Chase has returned to practice. This could indicate that the two are closer to a deal than previously known, and is a great sign for his availability in week 1, but there's still the chance he doesn't play. It's certainly a frustrating situation for fantasy managers.
What isn't in question is Chase's talent. Chase exploded on the NFL scene immediately in his rookie year, logging 81 receptions for a whopping 1,455 yards and 13 touchdowns. Burrow, an elite QB in his own right, showcased a great connection with Chase.
While both Chase and Burrow have dealt with injury issues and missed significant time in the past two seasons, they have shown to be a top-tier QB/WR duo, and you can start Chase with confidence even when Burrow misses time.
His return to practice is great news, but he could be a game-time decision. Fantasy managers will need to continue to monitor Chase's situation until official news is received about his status for week 1.
UPDATE: Chase said in an interview that he will likely be "limited" if he plays. He's still a start due to his extreme explosiveness and ability to take it to the house on any play, but managers may have to temper expectations for the season opener.
"I'll probably be limited if I do play." - Ja'Marr Chase https://t.co/4nwrMjZSOp
— Hayden Winks (@HaydenWinks) September 6, 2024
More Fantasy Football Start 'Em, Sit 'Em Picks
Odell Beckham Jr. – Week 11 Fantasy Football Start 'Em, Sit 'Em Picks
BALLER MOVE: Start as a Last-Minute Replacement POSITIONAL VALUE: WR98 ANALYSIS: Miami Dolphins wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. has had no fantasy football impact this season. The veteran has scored three half-point PPR fantasy points in four games. All of his fantasy production came in Week 9 against the Buffalo Bills. He caught all three […]
Jaylen Waddle - Week 10 Fantasy Football Start 'Em, Sit 'Em Picks
BALLER MOVE: Consider In 12+ Team Leagues POSITIONAL VALUE: WR3 ANALYSIS: Through two games of Tua Tagovailoa's return, the outlook on Jaylen Waddle has soured. It's like Skylar Thompson and Tyler Huntley are still starting. Tyreek Hill and De'Von Achane have improved since Tagovailoa came back. Waddle has six catches for 41 yards and a […]
Najee Harris - Week 10 Fantasy Football Start 'Em, Sit 'Em Picks
BALLER MOVE: Start In All Leagues POSITIONAL VALUE: RB2 ANALYSIS: The consensus is that George Pickens has benefitted the most from Pittsburgh's move from Justin Fields to Russell Wilson. Najee Harris has a compelling case. The former Pro Bowl running back has three straight 100-yard games, the last two with Wilson under center. The downfield […]
Marvin Harrison Jr. - Week 10 Fantasy Football Start 'Em, Sit 'Em Picks
BALLER MOVE: Consider in 12+ Team Leagues POSITIONAL VALUE: WR3 ANALYSIS: The Arizona Cardinals run at the eighth-highest rate in the league. That stat helps explain Marvin Harrison Jr.'s low number of targets. The fourth-overall pick averages just a hair over six targets per game. Marvin Harrison Jr. now has 5 fantasy points or less […]
Kyler Murray - Week 10 Fantasy Football Start 'Em, Sit 'Em Picks
BALLER MOVE: Consider in 14+ Team Leagues POSITIONAL VALUE: QB2 ANALYSIS: The Cardinals prefer to lean on James Conner and the running game on offense. The best way to beat the Jets' defense is to pound the rock, which is not ideal for Kyler Murray. Murray averages 28 pass attempts and under 200 passing yards […]
Download Our Free News & Alerts Mobile App
Like what you see? Download our updated fantasy football app for iPhone and Android with 24x7 player news, injury alerts, rankings, starts/sits & more. All free!
Win More With RotoBaller
Be sure to also check out all of our other daily fantasy football articles and analysis to help you set those winning lineups, including this new RotoBaller YouTube video: