As the Cincinnati Bengals (8-8) prepare for their season finale just a couple of days away, wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase is already looking ahead to 2024 with the realization that the team’s playoff hopes for 2023 have faded away.
Facing the prospect of a long offseason, Chase can’t help but reflect on what might be the last game he shares with fellow wide receivers Tee Higgins and Tyler Boyd.
Chase opened up about his sentiments, saying, “It hit me this week that this could be the last game with Tee Higgins and/or Tyler Boyd. There are so many memories, lots of laughter, and an indescribable bond that we’ve formed over the years. We’ve had so much fun together.”
Over the past three years (2021-2023), this trio of players has solidified themselves as one of the NFL’s most formidable receiving units, amassing an impressive 645 receptions, 8,727 receiving yards, and 59 touchdowns.
However, the impending expiration of Higgins’ and Boyd’s contracts at the end of the season might signal the end of an era for this dynamic group. The Bengals, having already made Joe Burrow the highest-paid quarterback in NFL history with a five-year, $275 million deal, will face financial constraints when it comes to securing new contracts for Higgins and Boyd.
Higgins is expected to command a substantial four-year, $66.32 million deal, while Boyd’s projections point to a three-year, $26.14 million contract, according to Spotrac.
Despite Ja’Marr Chase’s strong desire for his teammates to remain with the Bengals, he recognizes the financial challenges and respects their autonomy in handling their contracts. Chase expressed his perspective, saying, “They know I want them. They know what I want. At the end of the day, it’s about what they want. I won’t hold anyone back from pursuing their aspirations. I support everything they do.”
The Bengals are poised for an intriguing offseason filled with tough decisions. However, one certainty remains – as long as they have Joe Burrow, they will always possess a chance to contend for a Super Bowl championship.
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