A challenging NFL offseason lies ahead for the Cincinnati Bengals, who have now missed the playoffs in back-to-back seasons despite having Joe Burrow at quarterback. With key players like Tee Higgins and Trey Hendrickson entering free agency, the team faces crucial roster decisions.
At the same time, a blockbuster contract extension for Ja’Marr Chase looms. With Cincinnati’s wide receiver room potentially undergoing major changes, NFL insider Ian Rapoport shared the latest developments on Chase’s and Higgins’ futures.
Where the Bengals Stand on Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins
The Bengals have long made it clear that they plan to make Chase the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. The reigning Triple Crown winner has a strong case, but the price tag for top players keeps rising each year.
To start this year’s free agency, Cleveland Browns star Myles Garrett set the new benchmark, signing a four-year, $160 million deal that averages $40 million per year. That raises the question, will Cincinnati exceed that number for Chase?
According to Rapoport, who appeared on “The Pat McAfee Show,” the answer is likely yes.
“I think he probably does [get more than $40 million per year]. And I don’t get the sense that the Bengals are far from it now.”
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Rapoport also defended Cincinnati’s approach amid criticism over franchise tagging Higgins and allowing Hendrickson to explore trade options. He emphasized that the Bengals want to get the Chase deal done, but the latter himself is in no rush.
“I understand the Bengals get criticized. People are like, ‘Why have they not gotten the deal done?’ It takes two to get the deal done. And if you’re Ja’Marr Chase — I think the Bengals would like it done immediately, they have offered really close to that — it sounds to me like he’s like, ‘I got time. There’s no rush.’”
Why Chase Is Willing To Wait
Chase is coming off a historic Triple Crown season, leading the league with 127 receptions, 1,708 receiving yards, and 17 touchdowns. With numbers like that, he understands that waiting could mean an even bigger payday.
“Ja’Marr Chase is waiting. And even though it’s awesome that deals get done immediately, if you wait, they just get higher.”
Despite the delay, Rapoport expressed confidence that Cincinnati will secure both Chase and Higgins on long-term deals.
“It’s gonna sting for the Bengals, but I think they get it done. I actually think they probably get both of these guys.”
For Bengals fans, this news is about as good as they could hope for. The franchise has long been criticized for its hesitance to spend big, and back-to-back playoff misses, along with recent contract drama, have only added to the frustration.
However, if Rapoport’s report proves true, Cincinnati could keep its core intact and remain a top contender in the AFC.