The Cincinnati Bengals opened training camp last weekend without two superstars. Wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase is currently sitting in and not practicing. Neither Chase nor head coach Zac Taylor have explained why the receiver isn’t practicing.
Meanwhile, defensive end Trey Hendrickson sat in during their first four practices. Hendrickson made waves after requesting a trade earlier in the offseason, then saying he wanted to play for the Bengals on a renegotiated contract.
ESPN insider Adam Schefter said Chase wants to be the highest-paid wide receiver in the NFL. Bengals owner Mike Brown told reporters the team would reward Chase with a contract, but negotiations would take some time. The Bengals can be patient as they have Chase under contract through the 2025 season.
However, the Bengals should be motivated to sign Chase to an extension before the receiver market explodes again.
Justin Jefferson, Chase’s former college teammate, signed a 4-year $140 million extension with the Vikings this offseason. Chase is among the many receivers, including teammate Tee Higgins, 49ers’ receiver Brandon Aiyuk, and Cowboys’ receiver Ceedee Lamb, who are looking to top Jefferson’s payday next offseason.
The Bengals would be wise to get Chase extended before the season starts. They need the star receiver locked into this season and beyond. Chase is a franchise cornerstone, and the Bengals desperately need him.
The Bengals front office will be busy during the preseason trying to keep their best receiver and defensive end happy. It’s unclear how long the pair plans to hold in from practice.