The Cincinnati Bengals could be down an important pass-catcher when they host the New England Patriots this Sunday. And it isn’t Ja’Marr Chase.

Chase’s running mate, Tee Higgins, missed the Bengals’ final Week 1 practice on Friday, according to reports out of Cincinnati. Higgins popped up on the injury report Thursday with a hamstring injury that limited him in practice.

Higgins would be the No. 1 receiver on most teams in the NFL. The 25-year-old has topped 900 receiving yards in three of his four pro seasons, averaging 63.5 yards per game and 14.3 yards per reception in his career.

The last time the Patriots and Bengals played late in the 2022 season, Higgins dominated, catching eight of nine targets for 128 yards and a touchdown.

Durability has been an issue for the 6-foot-4, 219-pound wideout, however. Higgins missed five games last season, and four of those were due to hamstring issues.

Chase’s Week 1 availability also has been uncertain after the three-time Pro Bowler missed most of training camp amid a contract dispute. Chase participated in practice in a limited capacity this week, and Patriots players and coaches said they’re preparing as if he will play Sunday.

New England cornerback Christian Gonzalez called the Chase-Higgins duo “a two-headed monster.” Facing the Bengals without both at full strength would make life easier for Gonzalez, who’s missed most of his rookie season with a shoulder injury, and the rest Patriots’ defense.

Rounding out Cincinnati’s receiver depth chart are Andrei Iosivas, Trenton Irwin, Charlie Jones and rookie Jermaine Burton. Iosivas, a former All-American in the heptathlon, replaced departed veteran Tyler Boyd in the slot and generated considerable buzz in Bengals training camp. Third-round pick Burton reportedly is unlikely to contribute early after an underwhelming summer.

The Bengals also have receiving-focused tight end Mike Gesicki, who came over in free agency after a disappointing 2023 season with New England.