It didn’t happen last year, but it should this offseason.
The Cincinnati Bengals and Ja’Marr Chase reportedly came close to a contract extension last offseason, but the two sides ultimately couldn’t agree to terms and tabled talks until after the season.
In that season, Chase went on to lead the league in receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns.
As is life in the NFL, the price for Chase’s services has gone up from last summer, and he has every right to ask for more. While in Orlando for the Pro Bowl Games, Chase was asked on SiriusXM about a potential extension and if he plans to top his friend Justin Jefferson’s deal.
“I got a chance to show more of my game.”@Bengals WR Ja’Marr Chase discussed his All-Pro season, his contract situation, and WR Tee Higgins.
https://t.co/xbd7JNuKgv#Bengals | #RuleTheJungle pic.twitter.com/xcgvkPkKsl
— SiriusXM NFL Radio (@SiriusXMNFL) February 3, 2025
“That’s something I don’t have an answer to, though, so I can’t really tell you,” Chase replied when asked if he thinks he will beat Jefferson’s deal.
Of course, he isn’t the only Bengals receiver due for a payday. Tee Higgins could hit free agency in a little over a month, where he could get upwards of $30 million per year.
Chase was asked about the team retaining Higgins as well, and he sounded optimistic.
“It’ll be a great opportunity to get Tee back on the team with us, just because you know what he can do for us,” Chase said. “What he brings to the table. You know he’s such a great athlete, man, he’s made such a difference on the field and when he’s off the field.”
Keeping both Chase and Higgins will likely take both of them taking a bit of a hometown discount and could require a contract restructure from franchise quarterback Joe Burrow.
Either way, expect Chase to sign a record-setting contract before kickoff of Week 1.
