The Cincinnati Bengals struck gold in back-to-back drafts, landing quarterback Joe Burrow in 2020 and reuniting him with his LSU teammate, Ja’Marr Chase, in 2021.
But the franchise nearly fumbled its good fortune when it failed to lock Chase into a long-term extension before the 2024 season.
That decision led to an uneasy standoff. Chase participated in training camp but refused to engage in contract negotiations, making it clear that he would play out the season without committing to the team long-term.
If the Bengals needed any more proof that Chase deserved a massive payday, the star wideout delivered an unforgettable 2024 campaign.
He dominated the league, securing the elusive triple crown by leading the NFL in receptions (127), receiving yards (1,708), and touchdowns (17).
And he did it all while playing on a rookie contract, earning just $1.05 million in base salary – an absurdly low figure for someone of his caliber.
Now, Cincinnati is making it clear: Chase is their priority.
“Ja’Marr is always going to be our priority. He’ll be the top paid non quarterback in the league. We’re there. Let’s get it done,” Bengals Director of Player Personnel Duke Tobin said.
Most analysts assumed the Bengals would have made this commitment a year ago, but as the saying goes – better late than never.
“We’re going to reward Ja’Marr. He’s going to be the guy,” Tobin added.
The big question now is: How much will it cost the Bengals to keep Chase?
Currently, Minnesota Vikings star Justin Jefferson holds the title of the highest-paid non-quarterback in the league, earning $35 million per year.
But one NFL insider believes Chase will be the first receiver to crack the $40 million mark. If Tobin’s words hold weight, that prediction could soon become reality.
Of course, Chase isn’t the only high-profile Bengals receiver due for a new deal.
Tee Higgins, a free agent this offseason, is also looking for a major payday. His projected market value? Around $25.4 million per year.
Joe Burrow has expressed optimism that Cincinnati can keep both Chase and Higgins, but doing so would require the team to shell out nearly $65 million annually on just two wide receivers.
While that would undoubtedly keep Burrow happy and boost the team’s Super Bowl chances, it could come at a cost elsewhere on the roster.
Locking up Chase and Higgins long-term likely means Cincinnati would struggle to retain key defensive players – most notably, pass-rusher Trey Hendrickson.
Given that the Bengals missed the playoffs in 2024 largely due to defensive struggles, the front office will have to make some tough financial decisions.
For now, though, the Bengals are saying all the right things. The only question is whether they’ll back it up with the biggest wide receiver contract in NFL history.
What are your thoughts on the Chase situation? … Will the Bengals be able to keep both he AND Higgins together in Cincy???
