Chase and Higgins Become NFL’s Top-Paid Duo as Bengals Bank on Super Bowl Return

As the Cincinnati Bengals prepare for training camp, Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins will enter with a rare distinction: the NFL’s highest-paid wide receiver tandem. On the same day this offseason, the duo secured lucrative four-year contracts totaling $276 million, with Chase signing for $161 million and Higgins for $115 million.

These record-setting deals not only reflect their individual talents but also place a massive spotlight on them ahead of a critical 2025 season. Expectations are high, both within the organization and from fans, for them to prove they’re the league’s premier wide receiver pairing.

Bengals Bet Big as Chase and Higgins Face Pressure to Prove Their Worth

Chase acknowledged the pressure, stating that the need to “prove ourselves all over again” is not just a team goal, but a demand from fans and the broader NFL community. The urgency is amplified by the Bengals’ postseason drought and the need for their star players to deliver on their massive contracts. The team, having invested heavily in both receivers, clearly sees them as central to their path back to playoff contention and beyond.

Their routes to these contracts have diverged. In the past year, both players pushed for long-term deals, but their performances varied. Chase had a historic season, leading the league in catches, receiving yards, and touchdowns, becoming just the fifth player to achieve the receiving triple crown since the AFL-NFL merger.

Meanwhile, Higgins struggled with injuries but still ranked among the top 10 in receiving yards per game. Despite the contrasting years, the Bengals committed to both, recognizing their combined potential.

Strengthening Bonds and Resetting Goals as Chase and Higgins Target Championship Run

This offseason, Chase and Higgins have not only signed their contracts but also deepened their connection on and off the field. Both took part in a private receiver workout organized by former Bengals star Chad Johnson, which included about a dozen players.

Chase emphasized their growing chemistry, noting how their individual journeys have merged, with each learning and building alongside the other. Their unity will be key to executing Cincinnati’s offensive strategy in the coming season.

Ultimately, the goal for Chase, Higgins, and the Bengals extends beyond personal accolades. After missing the playoffs last season despite standout performances from stars like Joe Burrow and Trey Hendrickson, the team is hungry to return to its 2021 and 2022 form, seasons that saw a Super Bowl appearance and an AFC Championship Game run.

Chase made it clear that while the past was historic, it’s time to reset and aim higher, saying, “We can’t dwell on what we did… we have to show it all over again.”