The Cincinnati Bengals opened training camp last weekend, but two of their stars are on the sideline. Wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase is currently not practicing. Neither Chase nor head coach Zac Taylor has explained why.
Meanwhile, defensive end Trey Hendrickson took part in the first practice of camp but none since. 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’s 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, they should be motivated to sign Chase to an extension before the receiver market surges upward again.
Justin Jefferson, Chase’s former college teammate, signed a four-year, $140 million extension with the Vikings this offseason. Chase is among the many receivers, including teammate Tee Higgins, Brandon Aiyuk of the 49ers and Ceedee Lamb of the Cowboys, who are looking to top Jefferson’s payday.
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.