With the 2024 NFL season just around the corner, the Cincinnati Bengals are preparing to kick things off. Unfortunately, the AFC North team might start the season without a key player: Ja’Marr Chase.
The Bengals head into the new campaign with a star-studded roster. Their offense stands out as the strongest unit, featuring big names like Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins, among others.
Joe Burrow has developed an exceptional partnership with Chase since their college days at LSU. However, the quarterback might have to begin the upcoming season without his top wide receiver.
Report: Ja’Marr Chase may not gear up for the start of the 2024 NFL season
The strong relationship that Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase built in college is paying off in the NFL. The quarterback-wideout tandem worked nearly perfectly at LSU, and the same is true with the Bengals.
No one can doubt Ja’Marr Chase’s talent. He was named Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2021 and has earned three Pro Bowl selections so far, averaging 1,230 receiving yards per season.
Chase knows his value, which is why he’s not entirely comfortable with the treatment he’s receiving. The wideout wants a contract extension, but the club seems to be holding off on giving it to him.
On Tuesday, head coach Zac Taylor informed the media that Ja’Marr Chase would be returning to practice. While the wideout did appear on the field on Wednesday, it wasn’t in the way the Bengals expected.
Ja’Marr Chase was spotted at Wednesday’s practice, but without a uniform. He arrived in street clothes, with no intention of training with his teammates as they prepare for their Week 1 game against the Patriots.
Will Ja’Marr Chase sign a new contract this offseason?
As of today, it remains uncertain what Ja’Marr Chase will do. The wideout is seeking a lucrative contract extension, but he still has one year left on his rookie deal, plus the 5th-year option.
The Bengals find themselves in a tough spot. Extending Ja’Marr Chase’s contract this year could be more cost-effective than waiting until next offseason, as a remarkable 2024 season could drive his salary expectations even higher.
SURVEY Should the Bengals give Ja'Marr Chase a contract extension this year?
Should the Bengals give Ja'Marr Chase a contract extension this year?
ALREADY VOTED 3 PEOPLE