In a landmark move that underscores their commitment to building a championship-contending team, the Cincinnati Bengals have signed star wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase to a record-breaking contract extension. The four-year, $161 million deal, which includes $112 million guaranteed, positions Chase as the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history, with an average annual salary of $40.25 million.
Chase’s new contract surpasses the previous record held by Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson, who signed a four-year, $140 million extension in June 2024. This substantial investment by the Bengals reflects their recognition of Chase’s exceptional talent and his pivotal role in the team’s offensive success.
The timing of Chase’s extension is particularly noteworthy. He was entering the final year of his rookie contract, and the Bengals exercised his fifth-year option in April 2024, ensuring his presence through the 2025 season. The new extension will commence in 2026, keeping Chase with the team through the 2029 season.
Chase’s impact since joining the Bengals in 2021 has been nothing short of remarkable. Teamed with quarterback Joe Burrow, his former LSU teammate, Chase quickly established himself as one of the premier wide receivers in the league. In his rookie season, he set a Bengals franchise record with 1,455 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns, earning the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year honors.
The 2024 season further cemented Chase’s status among the elite. He led the league in receptions (127), receiving yards (1,708), and receiving touchdowns (17), achieving the receiving triple crown. His consistent performance earned him Pro Bowl selections in each of his first four seasons.
In addition to Chase’s extension, the Bengals have also secured a four-year, $115 million deal with wide receiver Tee Higgins, with the first two years guaranteed. Higgins’ contract includes performance-based incentives that could elevate his annual earnings, placing him among the top five highest-paid wide receivers in the league.
These strategic moves ensure that the Bengals’ dynamic duo of Chase and Higgins will remain integral parts of the team’s high-octane offense. With quarterback Joe Burrow also under contract, the Bengals have solidified their core for the foreseeable future, aiming to build on their recent successes and pursue a Super Bowl title.
