Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase has acknowledged the possibility that he and other starters may need to play in the preseason to better prepare for the regular season. Despite his preference to avoid preseason action, Chase admitted, “It sounds like we need to play in the preseason” after the team’s first organized team activity (OTA). The Bengals have stumbled out of the gate in recent years, starting 0-2 in both 2022 and 2023, and going 1-4 in 2024 after a similar approach of resting starters in the preseason.
With Contracts Secured, Bengals Core Enters 2025 Season Focused and Mentally Refreshed
Chase faced added scrutiny last year due to his absence from training camp while negotiating a contract extension. He admitted he wasn’t mentally prepared to play, stating, “I was in my own head.” The lack of reps, combined with the rust of many starters, contributed to a slow start for the team. Now, with his long-term contract secured along with fellow receiver Tee Higgins, Chase enters the 2025 season with greater peace of mind and renewed focus.
Ja’Marr Chase Embraces Preseason Reps as Bengals Target Stronger 2025 Start and Playoff ReturnQuarterback Joe Burrow expressed enthusiasm about having Chase and Higgins committed to the team long-term. “It’s great when you can reward guys who do it the right way,” Burrow said. With a solid offensive core in place for the next four years, including himself, Burrow sees an exciting future for the Bengals. The stability offers a strong foundation as the team aims to return to postseason contention.
Despite Record-Breaking Season, Chase Aims for Growth and Team Playoff Success in 2025
Chase had a career-best season in 2024, winning the receiving triple crown with 127 catches, 1,708 yards, and 17 touchdowns. Despite his individual success, he stayed motivated and determined, embracing a mindset of playing with a “chip” on his shoulder.
Looking ahead to 2025, he’s focused on continuing his own development while also pushing his teammates to perform at a higher level by studying defenses more closely and deepening his understanding of the game.
Although Chase achieved his personal milestones, the Bengals missed the playoffs for the second straight year, fueling his motivation for team success. “That’s my chip right there,” he said, referring to their playoff drought.
Head coach Zac Taylor emphasized that the focus is now on optimizing the 2025 squad. With seasoned players like Chase and Higgins adapting to new tweaks in the system, Taylor is encouraged by their responsiveness and sees it as a key component of their offseason progress.
