The drama between the Bengals and their star receiver Ja’Marr Chase has finally come to an end. And for the Bengals, it’s about time!
The Calm After the Storm
Ja’Marr Chase is once again all in with his team, even though he reportedly felt the franchise wasn’t entirely truthful about a potential new deal for this year. It was a whirlwind offseason filled with speculation and disappointment, but now Chase can proclaim:
“All this BS that was going on this offseason and prior to the season, I’m just happy that it’s over with,” Chase said Thursday. “I’m finally playing ball and having fun with the guys. That’s what matters most for me.”
A Bargain for the Bengals
The Bengals will benefit from Chase’s talents in 2024 for just $4.8 million. While it’s a given that a new deal in 2024 will come with a heftier price tag, the Bengals are currently enjoying a 5-star meal at a fast-food price.
Chase didn’t hold out from training camp because missing three days would have cost him a $3.8 million roster bonus. However, for a moment, the idea of skipping out on Week 1 crossed his mind. Ultimately, he made the choice to join his teammates.
A Look Ahead
In 2025, Chase is set to earn $21.8 million, the option year of his rookie deal. Even with a lucrative offer looming in 2024, there’s a chance he might refuse the team’s best proposal.
The Deal That Almost Was
Word has it that the Bengals dangled a deal with a new-money average of $35 million per year—equaling the haul of Vikings receiver Justin Jefferson. However, the devil is in the details, and the structure of the offer didn’t sit well with Chase.
The Wait Continues
Whether Chase signs in 2025 will largely hinge on if the team can craft a more appealing deal structure. But for the time being, the Bengals have snagged a win by delaying Chase’s anticipated pay raise, retaining him on the cost-effective terms of his first-round rookie deal.
The Bengals and their fans can exhale—for now, the Chase saga has concluded, with the gridiron set for more thrilling touchdowns and electrifying moments from one of the NFL’s premier talents.
