The Cincinnati Bengals are pushing to give wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase a record-breaking deal, with de facto general manager Duke Tobin stating the franchise wants to make him the highest-paid non-quarterback in the league.
The team’s efforts come as Chase seeks a long-term extension, following his impressive 2023 season where he became the sixth player since 1970 to win the receiving “triple crown.” The Bengals are currently engaged in contract negotiations with Chase and wide receiver Tee Higgins, who is angling for a new deal. Additionally, defensive end Trey Hendrickson is seeking an extension, having led the league with 17.5 sacks last season.
Tobin expressed his commitment to making Chase highly compensated, without disclosing details on guaranteed money. The team’s approach differs from other franchises, which provide more effective guarantees to non-quarterbacks. Bengals coach Zac Taylor also echoed Tobin’s comments, emphasizing the importance of rewarding great players like Chase.
The Bengals’ efforts come as they face a pivotal offseason, having missed the postseason for two consecutive seasons following deep playoff runs in 2021 and 2022. Quarterback Joe Burrow has been vocal about wanting to sign Higgins, Chase, Hendrickson, and tight end Mike Gesicki to extensions, with de facto general manager Tobin expressing similar sentiments.
Source: https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/44013799/bengals-plan-make-wr-jamarr-chase-nfl-top-paid-non-qb