CINCINNATI (AP) — Ja’Marr Chase said he and the Cincinnati Bengals are close to an agreement on a contract extension. The star forward added Friday that it is his decision whether he plays Sunday against visiting New England.

Chase sat out most of pre-season and returned to training two weeks ago, saying negotiating a new deal was stressful.

“Overall, it’s a learning process for me,” Chase told reporters. “Seeing how to handle the situation and not putting my feelings into it, that’s all.”

Chase was listed as questionable for Sunday’s season opener, saying if he plays, he likely would be limited because he hasn’t practiced much.

Chase has been one of the most productive receivers in the NFL since the Bengals drafted him fifth overall out of LSU in 2021.

He has 268 receptions for 3,717 yards and 29 touchdowns over the past three seasons. Star receivers Justin Jefferson of Minnesota ($140 million over four years) and CeeDee Lamb of Dallas ($136 million, four-year extension) received big contracts this offseason.

Chase and quarterback Joe Burrow played together just once during the offseason and have been trying to reconnect in recent weeks — Burrow also played at LSU.

“I’m really comfortable with the offense,” Chase said. “The biggest thing is timing with Joe. We’ve been getting that down the last couple of days.”

If no deal is reached, Chase says he wants to refocus on helping the Bengals reach the Super Bowl again.

“It’s because of this team that I’m a leader and that I am who I am,” he said.

Chase said he had until Friday to reach an agreement, and that a deal was still possible.

“The chances are slim, but who knows what will happen over the next few hours?” Chase said.

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