The problem is that the Bengals can, and perhaps will, squat on Chase at $21.8 million for 2025, the franchise tag for 2026, and possibly a second tag for 2027. He could let it play out and hit the market in 2028. But that’s three seasons away. He’ll be 28. And he’ll bear the risk of a significant injury impacting his value.

Near the end of the season, serious momentum seemed to suggest the Cincinnati Bengals would be able to keep Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins on long-term contracts. Now, a little pushback to the idea has arrived, courtesy of anonymous NFL executives.

The Cincinnati Bengals and All-Pro wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase enter another offseason of intense contract negotiations. After not being able to agree on a new deal ahead of last season, the Bengals and Chase will now resume negotiations. Chase is entering the final year of his rookie deal with the Bengals.

Last offseason, Spotrac provided a projection for an extension for Chase that came in at $120 million over four years, with an average annual value of $30 million. It also included $46 million ...

The Cincinnati Bengals are ready to open contract negotiations again with wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase, who likely is seeking to become the highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL.

Chase has one year remaining on his rookie deal in which he is set to earn $21.5 million. He's however targeting the title of the NFL 's highest-paid wide receiver, which would surpass his former LSU teammate, Justin Jefferson, who currently earns $35 million annually with the Minnesota Vikings.