Zac Taylor has been providing insightful information during Cincinnati Bengals’ practice sessions. From discussing the team’s approach to reintegrating star quarterback Joe Burrow after injury to providing details on the current state of contract negotiations with Ja’Marr Chase.
Several top players, including another key receiver, Tee Higgins, have expressed their desire to be traded. Although Higgins has confirmed he will stay with the team for this season, it appears his time with the Bengals will soon be ending. This situation opens the door for a significant contract extension for Ja’Marr Chase, a player the team must retain to support their star quarterback.
Ja’Marr Chase’s Absence Raises Contract Concerns
The wide receiver has not participated in voluntary offseason practice this spring. Chase is keen on receiving a lucrative contract, similar to other top stars in the NFL. His college teammate, Justin Jefferson, recently secured the highest payout for a non-quarterback, prompting Chase to seek a comparable deal.
Chase became eligible for a contract extension this offseason after completing his third NFL season. He has proven himself as a top receiver, and his outstanding performance warrants a significant pay raise. With mandatory minicamp approaching next week, many analysts are questioning whether Chase will participate.
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Head coach Zac Taylor acknowledged the situation and admitted he isn’t certain about Chase’s participation yet. The Bengals appear to be delaying negotiations, but Taylor hinted that they plan to sign Chase before the season starts.
“I’ve spoken with Ja’Marr,” Taylor stated (as transcribed by ProFootballTalk). “We’ve had great dialogue.”
Chase has quickly become one of the best receivers in the NFL since his rookie season. Despite missing several games due to injury, he accumulated 100 receptions, 1,216 receiving yards, and seven touchdowns last season.
Chase has surpassed 1,000 receiving yards each season despite injuries sidelining him periodically. The Bengals must expedite this contract situation and secure a deal as soon as possible. Allowing both Higgins and Chase to leave in the same season would be disastrous.
Hopefully, the two sides can finalize a deal before the season starts. The Chase-Burrow connection, which traces back to their college days at LSU, has proven to be one of the most valuable partnerships in the NFL.
Chase might delay this contract negotiation until the season begins, given the hefty paydays other receivers have recently received. Bengals fans hope the deal is completed before the season’s commencement. Chase’s presence is essential to the team’s offensive production, and with Higgins likely departing at season’s end, keeping Chase long-term is paramount.
