The New England Patriots are set to kick off their 2024 regular season against the Cincinnati Bengals this Sunday, with some uncertainty surrounding players from both teams. While the inactive lists, released 90 minutes before the 1 p.m. ET kickoff, will shed some light on the situation, early reports have already surfaced regarding three players: one Patriots running back and two Bengals wide receivers.
Patriots RB Antonio Gibson
The Patriots anticipate Gibson will play a key role in their offense, complementing Rhamondre Stevenson. However, he was listed as questionable for the game due to a hip injury. Despite this, ESPN’s Mike Reiss reports that Gibson plans to suit up against the Bengals. The Patriots hinted at this decision on Saturday when they opted not to elevate running back Kevin Harris from the practice squad, instead promoting offensive lineman Michael Jordan and defensive tackle Trysten Hill.
Gibson, who signed with New England as a free agent this offseason, is expected to be the team’s primary receiving back and offer a change of pace in the backfield. JaMycal Hasty is also on the roster as a rotational backup.
Bengals WR Ja’Marr Chase
The Bengals added star wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase to their injury report on Saturday, marking him as questionable due to an illness. However, this illness may not sideline the Pro Bowler for Sunday’s game. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, Chase was feeling better later in the day and is still included in Cincinnati’s game plan against New England.
Despite this, questions remain about both his availability and potential workload if he plays. Chase is also in the midst of an unresolved contract dispute with the Bengals, having only returned to practice on Wednesday as a limited participant while seeking a new deal.
Bengals WR Tee Higgins
After receiving a “doubtful” designation on Friday, the chances were already low that Cincinnati’s other starting wide receiver would suit up for Week 1. According to Bengals beat writer Mike Petraglia, that player will indeed not be active.
Appearing on 98.5 The Sports Hub on Sunday morning, Petraglia stated that he doesn’t expect the 25-year-old to play “at all” against New England. Although Higgins began the week as a full participant, a hamstring injury gradually limited his involvement, with him practicing in a limited capacity on Thursday before being sidelined entirely on Friday.
