Bengals anticipate high demands from standout WR Ja'Marr Chase
The Cincinnati Bengals are prepared to commence contract negotiations once again with wide receiver Ja\'Marr Chase, who is likely seeking to become the highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL.
Chase, who is 24 years old, is entering the final year of his rookie contract and is coming off a season where he achieved the receivers' triple crown, leading the league in
catches (127), receiving yards (1,708) and receiving touchdowns (17).
\"It is a top priority for us,\" stated Bengals' director of personnel Duke Tobin in an interview with The (Cincinnati) Enquirer on Wednesday. \"We believe there is a foundation to work from. ... Players in his position have recently renegotiated their contracts. We have faith in Ja\'Marr, he is extremely important to us. The other players who have signed new contracts are also crucial to their respective teams. Therefore, we believe there is a solid foundation to build upon. I anticipate that we will be able to reach an agreement that is beneficial for both parties.\"
This foundation is based on the $140 million, four-year deal between the Minnesota Vikings and Justin Jefferson, who received $110 million in guaranteed money. His average annual salary of $35 million is the highest among all non-quarterbacks.
The Bengals drafted Chase with the fifth overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, and he signed a four-year, $30.8 million contract. The team exercised their $21.8 million option for 2025 last April.
However, the two parties were unable to reach an agreement last summer on an extension. Chase reported to training camp to avoid fines but did not participate in practice until just before the season opener.
The Bengals, who finished with a record of 9-8 and just missed the AFC playoffs this season, have already signed quarterback Joe Burrow to a long-term deal. The two were teammates at LSU and have had great chemistry together.
Throughout his career, Chase has appeared in 62 games (61 starts) and has recorded 395 receptions for 5,425 yards and 46 touchdowns.
