As the Bengals manage the Tee Higgins situation, they also have another star wide receiver, Ja’Marr Chase, seeking financial security. Chase is now eligible for a contract extension, but he was absent when the Bengals began their organized team activities on Tuesday.
Chase’s absence likely relates to his contract status. According to ESPN’s Ben Baby, both Chase and the Bengals are in a “holding pattern” while awaiting Justin Jefferson’s expected extension with the Vikings. Chase has been eyeing Jefferson’s deal even before he was eligible for his own extension. The Bengals have emphasized that signing Chase is a priority, so it’s a matter of when, not if, Chase gets a new deal.
Cincinnati doesn’t face the same urgency as Minnesota. Jefferson is in the final year of his rookie contract, meaning the Vikings might have to use the franchise tag if they can’t secure an extension. Chase, however, has two years left on his rookie deal after his fifth-year option was picked up, giving him time to see how Jefferson’s negotiations proceed.
Chase, Jefferson, and Cowboys receiver CeeDee Lamb aim to reset the wide receiver market. Recent extensions for Amon-Ra St. Brown and A.J. Brown have pushed the average annual value (AAV) beyond $30 million. A.J. Brown currently leads with an AAV of $32 million and total guarantees of $84 million, figures likely to be surpassed once this trio signs new contracts.
With the front office committed to Joe Burrow, Chase’s forthcoming deal will further constrain the Bengals’ spending. This upcoming extension is already influencing how the team handles Higgins, and achieving cost certainty would greatly benefit the front office.
