Tag: Ja’Marr Chase

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

Post author By Sajda Parveen
Post date July 19, 2025
No Comments on 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.”

Tags Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins

NFL (American Football)

Ja’Marr Chase Predicts NFL’s First 2,000-Yard Receiver Within 3 Years, Eyes Justin Jefferson as Rival

Post author By Christopher Harris
Post date July 17, 2025
No Comments on Ja’Marr Chase Predicts NFL’s First 2,000-Yard Receiver Within 3 Years, Eyes Justin Jefferson as Rival

For decades, the 2,000-yard receiving mark in a single NFL season has remained unbroken, symbolizing one of the toughest milestones in the sport. While several elite receivers have come close, none have yet crossed the threshold. However, that could change soon, according to Ja’Marr Chase, one of the NFL’s top talents at the position.

Chase, who led the league with 1,708 receiving yards in 2024, believes the league is nearing a breakthrough. He recently stated that hitting 2,000 yards is more attainable than people think and expressed a strong desire to be the first player to achieve it. Still, he admitted that if not him, another receiver will likely do it within the next few years.

Chase Predicts 2,000-Yard Season Within Three Years, Highlights Jefferson as Contender

In his prediction, Chase gave a specific window: three years. He emphasized that the game’s offensive nature and talent level make the record increasingly realistic. His performance last season adds credibility to his claim, as he came within striking distance of the record himself.

Interestingly, Chase named Justin Jefferson of the Minnesota Vikings as another top candidate to break the barrier. Both receivers, who played together at LSU, are among the league’s most dynamic playmakers. Fans will get a chance to see them face off in Week 3 of the upcoming season, when the Bengals visit Minnesota—perhaps a preview of what a 2,000-yard season could look like.

Tags Ja'Marr Chase, NFL

NFL (American Football)

Ja’Marr Chase Embraces Preseason Reps as Bengals Target Stronger 2025 Start and Playoff Return

Post author By Christopher Harris
Post date May 28, 2025
No Comments on Ja’Marr Chase Embraces Preseason Reps as Bengals Target Stronger 2025 Start and Playoff Return

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.

Quarterback 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.

Tags Cincinnati Bengals, Ja'Marr Chase, NFL

NFL (American Football)

Micah Parsons isn’t the sole Cowboys player deserving of an extension

Post author By James Brown
Post date March 24, 2025
No Comments on Micah Parsons isn’t the sole Cowboys player deserving of an extension

This is a good time for the Dallas Cowboys to make moves for the future. It’s not just about extending the contract for All-Pro pass rusher Micah Parsons.

Three important players from the Cowboys’ 2022 draft class are ready to sign extensions. Tyler Smith, the first-round pick and Pro Bowl guard, has a fifth-year option for 2026 at a cost of $21.27 million. Tight end Jake Ferguson, the fourth-round pick, and cornerback DaRon Bland, the fifth-round pick, are heading into the last year of their rookie contracts.

The Cowboys made over $55 million in cap space for a reason, though it hasn’t yet led to signing any big-name free agents. They could use this money to extend all three players, as well as Parsons, who is in the final year of his rookie contract.

As mentioned several times before, extending Parsons would actually lower his salary cap hit for 2025.

Extensions for Smith, Ferguson, and Bland would increase their salary cap figures for 2025, but not by much. Smith went to North Crowley High School in Fort Worth, which is his hometown. He was a second-team All-Pro in 2023 and has been to the last two Pro Bowls.

Even though he has played for three seasons, he will turn 24 next month. He’s the ideal player to be the foundation of the offensive line now that Zack Martin has retired, just like they did with Tyron Smith, Travis Frederick, and Martin before him.

At the end of last season, Smith appeared ready to take on the challenge of being the leader of the offensive line.

“In my mind, I think it just starts with maintaining that standard,” Smith said. “When I got here, from the film room to walkthroughs, I’ve seen how Tyron and Zack practice.

I’ve seen how they study. I have thought about how I can be the best leader I can be. How can I continue to improve the standard that they’ve set before me? It is something that I take to heart every day.”

Bland was an All-Pro in 2023 when he led the league with nine interceptions and set an NFL record for most returns for a touchdown in a season with five. Ferguson was a Pro Bowl injury replacement in 2023 after catching 71 passes for 761 yards and five touchdowns.

Injuries affected the 2024 seasons for both Ferguson and Bland

Bland missed 10 games after having surgery for a stress fracture in his left foot. After intercepting 14 passes in his first two seasons, he didn’t intercept any in seven games last season. Ferguson missed three games in 2024, finishing with 59 catches for 494 yards. Just as he was getting close to being fully healthy after a sprained MCL in his left knee in the season opener, he got a concussion in the 10th game, missing two more games.

Giving a player an extension before the final season of his contract was how the Cowboys used to operate, though it feels like a long time ago. Players like Smith, Frederick, Tyrone Crawford, Terence Newman, Jason Witten, Bradie James, Tony Romo, and DeMarcus Ware all signed extensions before they became free agents.

Back then, the Cowboys gave them six-, seven-, or even eight-year deals with larger guarantees. This approach helped them have salary cap flexibility, as they could restructure the deals each year if needed.

But those days are in the past, and now the Cowboys need to find a way to convince Smith, Ferguson, and Bland that Dallas is the right place for them to play for the long term.

Larger guarantees and slightly overpaying come with some risk, just as waiting carries its own risk, since it might cost more in the future

The recent extension signed by Houston Texans cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. averages $30 million per season in new money, which likely sets the maximum for a Bland contract. Three years ago, the Cowboys signed Trevon Diggs to a five-year, $97 million deal ($19 million per year).

Ferguson might be harder to project due to the injuries last season, but he plays tight end, a position that hasn’t seen as much of a salary increase as other positions.

Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase is now the highest-paid non-quarterback at $40.25 million

Cleveland Browns pass rusher Myles Garrett held that title for about a week at $40 million annually.

While Parsons has said he doesn’t need to be the highest-paid defensive player in the NFL, it’s clear his agent will aim for that. Last year, the Cowboys couldn’t sign receiver CeeDee Lamb until late in training camp and quarterback Dak Prescott just hours before the season opener.

Those deals made Lamb the second-highest-paid receiver and Prescott the highest-paid player in the league.

With Parsons, the Cowboys can control his contract until 2028 if they use the franchise tag. Parsons has said he wants to be a Cowboy for life. The Cowboys have stated their goal is to sign Parsons for the long term. Maybe they’ll reach that agreement sooner than many expect.

But if they use the franchise tag on Parsons, they won’t have one available for Smith, Ferguson, or Bland next March.

In a perfect situation, the Cowboys would sign all four players to extensions before the season starts, though recent trends suggest that won’t happen. Signing at least one or two of them would be a good start.

Tags Dallas Cowboys, Ja'Marr Chase

NFL (American Football)

With extensions finalized, Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins are set to continue the Bengals’ title pursuit

Post author By Ryan Dyrud
Post date March 19, 2025
No Comments on With extensions finalized, Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins are set to continue the Bengals’ title pursuit

Ja'Mar Chase celebrates with Tee Higgins in the 2nd half

Cincinnati Bengals wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins signed four-year contract extensions, keeping them in Cincinnati for the peak of their careers alongside quarterback Joe Burrow.

These two star players highlighted the shift in expectations within the Bengals’ organization over the past five years. During this period, the team has had four straight winning seasons, five playoff victories, and even made it to the Super Bowl.

“I want to win a championship, and we can definitely win it here,” Higgins said in a joint press conference after the signings were finalized. “The money isn’t the big factor. It’s being with the guys for another four years and trying to win that championship.”

With Burrow signed through 2029, two strong starting tackles, and standout rookie running back Chase Brown, the Bengals are set to remain one of the NFL’s best offenses.

Securing Higgins and Chase’s contracts was the last step to keeping this offensive core intact.

Chase’s $161 million deal makes him the highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL, while Higgins’ $115 million extension places him among the league’s top 10 highest-paid wide receivers.

“Now that this is concluded, the next step for us is a championship with these guys,” Bengals head coach Zac Taylor said. “I think that’s a big reason why they wanted to be here; why they wanted to come back — they know there’s more for us to accomplish as a team, a lot more wins to be had, a lot more great moments.”

Since Chase was drafted with the fifth overall pick in 2021, the Bengals have not had a losing season. Last year, he became the first NFL player ever to have at least 100 receptions (127), 1,700 receiving yards (1,708), and 17 touchdown receptions in a season.

Despite having one of the league’s top offenses in 2024, the Bengals ended with a 9-8 record and missed the playoffs for the second year in a row.

Chase shared on Tuesday that his standout season wouldn’t have been possible without Higgins playing alongside him. When negotiating his own contract, he made it a priority for Higgins to stay in Cincinnati through their shared agent, Rocky Arceneaux.

“Signing us together, that’s the whole goal, for us to push this team and each other as far as we can go,” Chase said. “The one goal is to be the best in the AFC first. That’ll give us the easiest chance to get to the Super Bowl. If we get that first, that will give us the chance to get the next step.”

Higgins, a second-round pick in 2020, had been hoping for a major contract for over two years. There were times when he wasn’t sure if the deal would happen.

Last season, he switched agents to join the same representation as Chase

“I told Rocky, ‘Bro, do your big one,’” Higgins said. “I’m a quiet guy. I don’t do too much confrontation going back and forth. I had my full trust in Rocky. He was able to get it done.”

Though the contract talks were frustrating at times, Higgins said he has no hard feelings toward the Bengals ownership.

“Last year, I took a chance,” Higgins said. “I bet on myself. And I want to say it paid off. It’s all good now. It worked out in my favor. I’m just happy. I want to thank (executive vice president) Katie (Blackburn) and the whole organization for helping me and believing in me.”

In 2024, the Bengals led the NFL in passing yards and touchdowns, ranking sixth in points per game. While Chase had a historic year, Higgins also had his best season, finishing 30th in the NFL in catches despite missing five games due to injury.

Bengals director of player personnel Duke Tobin commented on the team’s success in keeping elite wide receivers like Chase and Higgins: “The Bengals have a long history of drafting and retaining elite wide receivers, and we’re happy to continue that tradition with Ja’Marr and Tee.

We are known for our explosive, high-scoring offense, and Ja’Marr and Tee are a big part of that identity. They earned these extensions with their abilities and promise for the future.”

Tobin is also hoping to secure an extension with Trey Hendrickson, despite the All-Pro edge rusher being allowed to seek a trade. Hendrickson is entering the final year of his contract after leading the league with 17 1/2 sacks last season.

“I definitely would love to see Trey back with us and he gets what he deserves,” Higgins said. “He has been a great part of our defense for the last few years. I’d definitely love to see Trey back on the team.”

Tags Cincinnati Bengals, Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins

NFL (American Football)

Joe Burrow’s Influence Reshapes Bengals’ Future with Chase and Higgins Extensions

Post author By Robert Jackson
Post date March 17, 2025
No Comments on Joe Burrow’s Influence Reshapes Bengals’ Future with Chase and Higgins Extensions

The Cincinnati Bengals have long been known for their unique front-office structure, operating without a traditional general manager. However, recent events suggest that quarterback Joe Burrow has stepped into an unofficial managerial role.

Burrow played a pivotal role in securing lucrative contract extensions for wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, making them two of the highest-paid players at their positions. Chase signed a four-year, $161 million extension, while Higgins landed a four-year, $115 million deal, solidifying their place in the Bengals’ future.

Historically, the Bengals have been reluctant to spend heavily on player contracts, often taking a tough stance in negotiations. This frugality was evident last season when both Chase and Higgins struggled to secure new deals.

Bengals owner Mike Brown even expressed skepticism about overpaying players, emphasizing salary cap constraints. However, Burrow’s influence seemingly forced the organization’s hand, demonstrating that if the team’s star quarterback insists on something, management listens.

Burrow’s Influence Secures Stars, Ensuring Bengals Avoid Another Carson Palmer Scenario

Burrow’s leadership went beyond the field, as he made it clear to the front office that keeping his key weapons was a priority. Following a crucial victory over the Dallas Cowboys, he publicly expressed confidence in the Bengals’ ability to retain Higgins.

Later, during Super Bowl week, he directly addressed the Bengals’ management, emphasizing the importance of re-signing Chase, Higgins, Trey Hendrickson, and Mike Gesicki. His assertiveness put significant pressure on the organization to act, leading to landmark contracts for Chase and Higgins.

The Bengals have experienced the consequences of mishandling star quarterbacks before, most notably with Carson Palmer. In 2011, Palmer became so frustrated with the team’s direction that he opted to retire rather than continue playing for Cincinnati.

Recognizing the warning signs, the Bengals moved swiftly to ensure that Burrow never reached that level of frustration. Former Bengals quarterback Palmer even noted Burrow’s growing discontent, adding urgency to the team’s decision to lock down its core offensive weapons.

Bengals Double Down on Burrow, Raising Expectations for Super Bowl Success

With Higgins and Chase secured, the focus shifts back to Burrow. Having pushed for these contracts, he now faces heightened expectations to deliver results. The Bengals can no longer afford slow starts or missing the playoffs. If Burrow believes these players are essential to winning, then winning must follow.

Additionally, the Bengals must navigate the financial challenges that come with paying their quarterback and top receivers an average of $124 million per year, making smart draft selections and low-cost signings essential for roster depth.

What once seemed like an offseason on the brink of disaster has turned into a reaffirmation of the Bengals’ commitment to winning. By making these aggressive moves, the franchise has sent a clear message: they are all-in on competing for a Super Bowl with Burrow leading the way.

The next step will be ensuring they continue to build a competitive team around him while maintaining financial flexibility. If the Bengals can successfully navigate these challenges, they may finally achieve their long-sought goal of securing a Lombardi Trophy.

Tags Ja'Marr Chase, Joe Burrow, NFL, Tee Higgins

NFL (American Football)

Bengals Plan Major Extensions for Chase, Higgins, and Hendrickson While Eyeing Roster Upgrades

Post author By James Brown
Post date February 26, 2025
No Comments on Bengals Plan Major Extensions for Chase, Higgins, and Hendrickson While Eyeing Roster Upgrades

The Cincinnati Bengals are prepared to make significant financial moves this offseason, with plans to secure long-term deals for key players while also bolstering their roster with new talent. Director of player personnel Duke Tobin shared that the team can afford to lock up its big trio—Tee Higgins, Ja’Marr Chase, and Trey Hendrickson—while also making additions through free agency. The priority is to retain their star players, and the team is in a solid position to manage their salary cap effectively.

The first major task for the Bengals is to sign wide receiver Tee Higgins, who is set to become a free agent in March. Tobin expressed the team’s preference for a long-term agreement with Higgins, emphasizing that this has always been the goal. While Tobin did not comment on the potential use of the franchise tag if a deal is not reached by the deadline, he reiterated that they are focused on getting a deal done with the talented wideout. The Bengals are in a fortunate position to retain him along with other key players.

Bengals Focus on Ja’Marr Chase’s Record Deal and Trey Hendrickson’s Contract Extension

Next on the Bengals’ list is making Ja’Marr Chase the highest-paid receiver in NFL history. Tobin acknowledged that it is inevitable that Chase will surpass Justin Jefferson’s $35 million-per-year deal, and the team is committed to making this happen. Tobin made it clear that Chase is a priority for the team and that they will work to secure a deal that rewards the wide receiver for his exceptional talent. The Bengals are confident they can get the deal done for their star player.

In addition to their offensive stars, the Bengals also plan to extend the contract of pass rusher Trey Hendrickson. Tobin highlighted Hendrickson’s passion and dedication to the team, noting that he has been an excellent fit. The Bengals are aiming to reach an agreement with Hendrickson to ensure he remains a key part of the defense moving forward. While Hendrickson is still under contract, the team is working toward a long-term extension that satisfies both sides.

Bengals Confident in Salary Cap Management, Focus on Defense, and Roster Improvements

Despite the challenges of paying top dollar to several star players, Tobin emphasized that the Bengals are in a good salary cap situation. The team has managed its cap well, with low dead money, allowing them to retain key players while still having room to add new talent. The Bengals are not only focused on re-signing their stars but also on improving the overall roster. Tobin acknowledged that it would be a “tall task” but expressed confidence that the team is up to the challenge.

Tobin also discussed several other topics during his media session, including the defense’s need for improvement. He admitted that the defense had struggled in critical moments and noted that the team would be focusing on strengthening that side of the ball.

Additionally, he expressed interest in re-signing free-agent tight end Mike Gesicki, who he believes is a great fit for the Bengals’ offensive system. Tobin also provided updates on various players, including running back Chase Brown and wide receiver Jermaine Burton, signaling that the team is evaluating their needs and preparing for the future.

Tags Ja'Marr Chase, NFL, Tee Higgins

NFL (American Football)

Ja’Marr Chase Fires Shots: Chiefs Barbs Continue Both During and After Bengals’ Loss

Post author By Richard Tudor
Post date January 2, 2024
No Comments on Ja’Marr Chase Fires Shots: Chiefs Barbs Continue Both During and After Bengals’ Loss

Ja’Marr Chase made sure on Sunday that his rivalry with Kansas City would not fizzle out. Following Cincinnati’s 25-17 defeat to the Chiefs, which dashed the Bengals’ playoff hopes, Chase didn’t shy away from taking jabs at the Kansas City defense.

In the second quarter, Chase received an unnecessary roughness penalty for a skirmish with Chiefs cornerback L’Jarius Sneed after a play. Post-game, Chase claimed credit for instigating the conflict with Cincinnati’s AFC rivals, stating, “I started it off. Their whole defense was mad at me. It started at the beginning of the game. You’ve seen it. Everybody’s seen it. That’s just what I like to do.”

Regarding his clash with Sneed, Chase remarked, “I just like to get under people’s skin sometimes. Motherf—er won’t fight me.” Despite finishing the game with 3 catches for 41 yards, he was lined up against Sneed for 61.8% of his routes, according to NFL Next Gen Stats.

Chase, who played after recovering from a right shoulder injury, expressed his determination to play, telling coach Zac Taylor he wanted to keep Cincinnati’s postseason hopes alive. Admitting he was at 70% health, he acknowledged a limited role in the game plan due to his condition.

The situation changed when wide receiver Tee Higgins suffered a left hamstring injury, and despite reaggravating it, he returned to aid the Bengals in their playoff race. Chase’s decision to play against Kansas City followed his midweek comments about their defense, where he suggested they lacked defensive superstars.

Reflecting on the game, Chase noted that the Chiefs’ defense covered him as expected, with extra attention focused on him and Higgins. While the Bengals led 17-13 at halftime, they were held scoreless in the second half. Chase expressed a desire for the team to have kicked a field goal at a crucial moment in the third quarter, but coach Taylor defended the decision to go for it.

Despite acknowledging the Chiefs’ strong defensive front, Chase wasn’t overly generous in praising them, stating, “They got a good (defensive) front. That’s it.”

Tags Ja'Marr Chase

NFL (American Football)

Fired Up: Ja’Marr Chase Injects Spice into Chiefs vs. Bengals Rivalry with Bold Statements Ahead of Week 17 Clash

Post author By Richard Tudor
Post date December 29, 2023
No Comments on Fired Up: Ja’Marr Chase Injects Spice into Chiefs vs. Bengals Rivalry with Bold Statements Ahead of Week 17 Clash

The rivalry between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Cincinnati Bengals has emerged as a notable non-divisional matchup in the NFL. Although this season’s encounter may not carry the same significance as some of their recent high-stakes clashes, Ja’Marr Chase injected excitement into their Week 17 game.

When queried about the Chiefs’ secondary, the Bengals’ wide receiver offered a straightforward assessment, stating, “If I’m being honest, nothing.” Unfazed by the potential impact of his words on his opponents, Chase remarked, “They could take it how they want to take it. I don’t care.”

Addressing Chiefs safety Bryan Cook, a former Cincinnati college player, Chase didn’t offer lavish praise. “I don’t even know who that is. Is that No. 6? I don’t know, man. Just a guy to me. He ain’t Jessie Bates to me. Do you want me to go into comparisons? It’s not the same. Just saying.”

While Chase seemed to commend Chiefs cornerback L’Jarius Sneed as “the best player on their team,” he attributed this distinction to the perceived gap in skill level with other defensive backs. “That’s why they double everybody because they can’t do it one-on-one,” Chase asserted.

Adding to his comments, Chase expressed confidence in his abilities, stating, “(The Chiefs) know I’m good. They know how to play us. That’s what it is, but it’s not like they got a superstar on their defense.”

Tags Ja'Marr Chase

NFL (American Football)

Bengals’ Ja’Marr Chase Benched with Shoulder Injury, Sidelined Against Steelers

Post author By Richard Tudor
Post date December 22, 2023
No Comments on Bengals’ Ja’Marr Chase Benched with Shoulder Injury, Sidelined Against Steelers

Cincinnati Bengals’ wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase will be sidelined for the upcoming game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Despite ranking seventh in the NFL for both receiving yards (1,156) and receptions (93), Chase has been unable to practice this week due to a sprained AC joint in his right shoulder sustained in the previous week’s victory over the Minnesota Vikings.

Bengals coach Zac Taylor announced the decision, stating, “We just ultimately made the decision that this week it’s not going to happen,” following Thursday’s practice. Taylor did not specify the duration of Chase’s absence but referenced the significant time gap before the Week 17 clash with the Kansas City Chiefs on Dec. 31, suggesting an extended recovery period.

While Trenton Irwin has typically stepped in as a starter in the absence of Chase or Tee Higgins, Taylor did not confirm Irwin’s starting status against the Steelers, emphasizing the team’s versatility with “a lot of guys available to play a lot of different roles.” Rookie Andrei Iosivas is also considered an option.

Higgins, the Bengals’ other starting outside receiver, remains focused on maintaining his performance despite Chase’s absence, stating, “I still gotta go out there and be the receiver I am.”

Cincinnati, currently with an 8-6 record, aims to secure a playoff berth for the third consecutive season. With Jake Browning taking over at quarterback in place of the injured Joe Burrow, who is out for the season with a torn ligament in his right wrist, the Bengals have secured three consecutive victories. Browning’s four-game tenure as a starter has seen him complete 76% of his passes for 1,180 yards, six touchdowns, and three interceptions.

Despite the Bengals’ recent success and the Steelers’ three-game losing streak, Browning anticipates a physical and challenging matchup in the AFC North. “Any AFC North game, the records don’t matter,” Browning emphasized. “It is a tough, bloody fight, really.”

Tags Cincinnati Bengals, Ja'Marr Chase

NFL (American Football)

Bengals’ Winning Streak Threatened: Star Receiver Tee Higgins Faces Potential Week 10 Absence, while Ja’Marr Chase Remains Optimistic Amidst Injury Concerns

The Cincinnati Bengals are on a winning streak, securing victories in their last four games leading up to Sunday’s home matchup against the Houston Texans. However, their momentum could face a setback as one of their star receivers, Tee Higgins, is likely to be sidelined for Week 10 and potentially beyond due to a hamstring injury sustained in Wednesday’s practice, as reported by NFL Media.

On a positive note, Ja’Marr Chase, dealing with a back issue after a hard landing in Week 9, returned to practice on Thursday. Chase expressed optimism about playing against the Texans, stating, “In my head, I’m playing. Until further notice and anything else, we’ll see,” according to CLNS Media.

Tee Higgins and Ja'Marr Chase — Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase (Credits: Marca)

Chase’s injury occurred during the Bengals’ recent victory over the Bills, where he took a hard fall while attempting a downfield catch. Despite a relatively quiet game against the Bills with four receptions for 41 yards, Chase leads the team with 64 receptions for 697 yards and four touchdowns in eight games.

Higgins, who overcame a recent rib injury, delivered an impressive performance with season-highs of eight receptions for 110 yards in the win over Buffalo. As a 2020 second-round pick, Higgins played a key role in the Bengals’ back-to-back AFC North division titles by posting consecutive 1,000-yard receiving seasons in the past two years.

While Chase and Higgins are irreplaceable, the Bengals have viable alternatives if they have to play without either player on Sunday, with Higgins being the more likely absence. Tyler Boyd, the team’s veteran wideout, remains a reliable target for quarterback Joe Burrow and has scored touchdowns in two of the last three games.

Additional reinforcements include rookie wideout Andrei Iosivas, wideout Trenton Irwin, and the tight end trio of Irv Smith Jr., Drew Sample, and Tanner Hudson, who collectively recorded 10 catches for 101 yards and two touchdowns against the Bills.

In the absence of key receivers, Cincinnati’s offense could also pivot towards a more ground-focused approach, relying on the skills of running back Joe Mixon, who not only contributes in the running game but also ranks fourth on the team in receptions. The Bengals will look to maintain their winning streak and adapt to the challenges posed by the potential absence of key offensive weapons in Week 10.

Tags Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins

NFL (American Football)

Seahawks Wide Receiver Delivers Stern Message to Bengals’ Star Ja’Marr Chase

Post author By Richard Tudor
Post date October 12, 2023
No Comments on Seahawks Wide Receiver Delivers Stern Message to Bengals’ Star Ja’Marr Chase

The Seattle Seahawks (3-1) are gearing up for a strong comeback after an early bye week as they prepare to face the Cincinnati Bengals (2-3) on Sunday, October 15.

The Bengals faced a challenging start to the season, with quarterback Joe Burrow battling through a calf injury. However, Burrow provided some reassurance to reporters on October 11, stating that he’s “feeling good” as they head into Week 6 and is the closest he’s been to a full recovery.

A healthy Burrow’s return bodes well for his top wide receiver, Ja’Marr Chase, who’s looking to replicate his outstanding performance against the Arizona Cardinals last week. Chase delivered a spectacular display with 15 receptions for 192 yards and three touchdowns.

Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf offered praise for Chase’s exceptional talent during a press conference on Wednesday, commending him as “a great receiver” and highlighting his remarkable catching abilities. Metcalf acknowledged Chase’s accomplishments in his first three years in the league.

Nevertheless, he anticipates that cornerback Devon Witherspoon, the Seahawks’ No. 5 overall pick from the 2023 NFL draft, will present a formidable challenge for Chase.

Metcalf added, “It’ll be fun to watch Sunday, but I think ‘Spoon will get the best of him.”

In a recent development, Chase was named the AFC’s Player of the Week following his stellar performance against the Cardinals, while Witherspoon received recognition as the NFC’s Defensive Player of the Week for his dominant showing against the New York Giants before the bye week.

In only his third NFL game, Witherspoon tallied an impressive seven tackles, three quarterback hits, two sacks, and a remarkable 97-yard pick-six late in the third quarter.

While Witherspoon began the season as the left cornerback, a series of injuries prompted a position shift as he played in the nickel slot against the Giants, with Mike Jackson taking on left cornerback duties. This strategic adjustment proved highly effective for the team.

With Artie Burns (hamstring) and Coby Bryant (toe) still unable to practice on Wednesday, Witherspoon is expected to remain in the slot while Riq Woolen takes on the role of right cornerback. Consequently, the responsibility of containing Chase will largely rest on Witherspoon’s shoulders.

The New Tribune reported that Chase primarily lined up on the left side of the offense against Arizona, which is the area defended by Woolen as Seattle’s right cornerback. Woolen expressed his enthusiasm for the challenge, stating, “Any time you go against a receiver that is considered high-caliber, I feel like it’s a great competition for me because I feel that’s how I’ll get better in my career, too.”

Woolen believes that facing off against Chase will sharpen his skills and make him a better defender against any opponent he encounters. He looks forward to the matchup and anticipates a competitive and enjoyable contest.

Tags Cincinnati Bengals, Ja'Marr Chase