Cincinnati Bengals Get Unexpected Update on Star WR Ja’Marr Chase

Ja’Marr Chase is back. After a prolonged on-field absence from Cincinnati Bengals training camp, the star wide receiver made his 2024 camp debut on Sunday, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.

While Chase has yet to land the new contract he's been looking for, his presence on the field signals a positive step forward.

“No new contract yet. But for the first time in camp, Chase was on the field,” Pelissero reported on X .

Chase’s return to practice gives him a valuable two-week ramp-up window for the upcoming season. Despite the unresolved contract situation, Chase remains a locked-in WR1 for 2024 and is expected to play a pivotal role in the Bengals’ offense.

Chase still has two years left on his rookie deal, including the fifth-year option. The 24-year-old wideout is reportedly seeking an extension similar to the one Justin Jefferson received from the Minnesota Vikings. However, Cincinnati has historically avoided large guarantees—Joe Burrow being the notable exception—which may complicate negotiations if Jefferson's deal is the benchmark Chase is aiming for.

Since being drafted fifth overall in 2021, Chase has been one of the league’s most productive receivers. Over his first three seasons, he’s tied with Stefon Diggs and Tyreek Hill for the second-most receiving touchdowns (29) and ranks seventh in receiving yards (3,717).

The former LSU standout's elite production makes him indispensable for the Bengals offense, who are hoping for another deep playoff run in 2024 following a disappointing 9-8 season.

While contract talks loom in the background, Chase’s focus is now on the field. With two weeks to reacclimate to the NFL’s rigors, the Bengals’ top wideout will look to be in peak form when the season kicks off, continuing his role as Burrow’s go-to target.

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