Ja’Marr Chase has told his Cincinnati Bengals teammate Joe Burrow to put his long-term health above everything else and delay his return to the field.
The star quarterback is currently out after suffering a calf injury during training camp.
While initial reports suggested he would miss several weeks of action, there is growing optimism he may be available for Week 1 in the NFL.
Nevertheless, Chase doesn’t want to see Burrow return until he is 100 percent healthy.
The wide receiver spoke to NFL Network about the importance of looking after your body.
He noted that last year he sat out an extra game to ensure his hip was completely healed before returning to the field, and he hopes Burrow does the same.
“I told him, in all honesty, I don’t want him there. You don’t want to cause problems later in the season,” said Chase.
“As long as you’re there after Week 5 and on, we’re good, brother.”
Bengals stars Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase train ahead of Super Bowl clash
Bengals opener
The Bengals begin their regular season on September 10 with a game against the Cleveland Browns.
It remains to be seen whether Burrows will be available for the game. If the star quarterback isn’t ready, then the Bengals will likely turn to Trevor Siemian to lead the offence.
The backup quarterback has plenty of NFL experience, having played for the Chicago Bears last season.
