Ja’Marr Chase in Concussion Protocol: Bengals Star’s Week 5 Status Uncertain

• by Shimanta Das
• October 6, 2026

Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase is in the NFL’s concussion protocol, head coach Zac Taylor announced Monday. Chase suffered the injury during Sunday’s 22-17 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars when he was ripped down by his facemask on a four-yard catch in the second quarter. He remained on the turf before eventually walking to the locker room and did not return. The All-Pro wideout had already made an impact before exiting, catching a three-yard touchdown pass in the first quarter to answer a Steelers opening-drive score—his third trip to the end zone this season.

Chase now must clear a series of tests in the coming days to be eligible for the Bengals’ Week 5 matchup against the Miami Dolphins. His status is shaky, and the team is also monitoring fellow receiver Tee Higgins, who is dealing with his own injury. The Bengals’ passing game could be severely shorthanded if both are unavailable. According to Kelsey Conway of the Cincinnati Enquirer, Chase said he “just hyperextended his knee and is OK,” but the concussion protocol remains the primary concern. The injury occurred when a Jaguars defender grabbed his facemask and yanked him down, a play that left Chase visibly shaken.

Meanwhile, the Jaguars are already planning for their next matchup with Chase, though his availability is uncertain. Jacksonville secured its first win over the Bengals behind Trevor Lawrence’s 227 passing yards and a touchdown, plus two critical turnovers forced by the defense. The Bengals fell to 1-3 and now face a critical stretch without knowing if their top playmaker will be cleared. Chase’s absence would be a significant blow to an offense already struggling to find consistency.

Key Takeaways: Chase is in concussion protocol and must pass tests to play in Week 5. He also reportedly hyperextended his knee but said he’s OK. Higgins’ status is also shaky, leaving the Bengals potentially thin at receiver. The team will provide updates as Chase progresses through the protocol. Stay tuned for further developments.