In a stunning display of confidence and commitment, Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase has inked a record-setting four-year, $161 million contract, with a whopping $112 million guaranteed. This week’s signing not only solidifies Chase as one of the league’s elite but also underscores the impact of camaraderie and support among teammates. Chase credited fellow star quarterback Joe Burrow for his role in helping secure this monumental deal, stating, “I think it was a big help. Him just putting out little information, having our back. You know, I think that’s the biggest thing, especially coming from a quarterback.”
Chase’s deal is a game-changer, but he’s not the only one reaping the rewards. Teammate Tee Higgins also secured a lucrative four-year, $115 million contract, with the first two years guaranteed. This agreement positions Higgins among the highest-paid receivers in the NFL and marks him as the highest-paid No. 2 receiver in league history. With these moves, the Bengals are clearly focused on keeping their offensive core intact, a strategic decision that should pay dividends as they continue to build around their dynamic young talent.
Both contracts were finalized after reports surfaced that Cincinnati had made significant strides in negotiations with Chase and Higgins, paving the way for these players to remain cornerstones of the franchise.
Chase, at just 24 years old, has already made a name for himself. He was a two-year starter at LSU, earning unanimous All-American honors during his sophomore campaign before opting out of the 2020 season due to the pandemic. The Bengals didn’t hesitate to scoop him up with the No. 5 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, and he’s been a force ever since. Currently, Chase is in the fourth year of a contract that originally totaled $30,819,642, including a signing bonus of $19,774,285. Additionally, the Bengals have exercised a fifth-year option, guaranteeing him $21.816 million for the 2025 season.
The 2024 season saw Chase making a profound impact on the field. He participated in all 17 games, hauling in 127 passes on 175 targets for an impressive 1,708 yards and 17 touchdowns. Notably, he clinched the NFL triple crown, leading the league in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns—an extraordinary feat that emphasizes his rising status in the league.
As the Bengals look forward, there’s no denying that retaining talents like Chase and Higgins is essential for their success. Their new contracts send a message not just to the fans, but to the league: Cincinnati is committed to building a powerhouse offense that’s poised to contend for years to come.
