INDIANAPOLIS — The Cincinnati Bengals are preparing to make a statement in the NFL by planning to offer All-Pro wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase a record-breaking deal, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback player in the league. Bengals’ director of player personnel, Duke Tobin, expressed this intention during the NFL scouting combine.
“Ja’Marr is set to become the top-paid non-quarterback in the NFL,” Tobin stated. “By executing this plan sooner rather than later, we can focus on strengthening other areas of our team. Prioritizing these contracts allows us to allocate resources efficiently and build a robust squad for the future.”
Reflecting Tobin’s views, Coach Zac Taylor also emphasized the need to offer an extension to wide receiver Tee Higgins, ensuring star quarterback Joe Burrow continues to have top-performing targets to bolster their already formidable passing game.
“It’s a privilege to work with phenomenal athletes who deserve acknowledgment for their contributions,” Taylor commented. “Having talented players seeking rewards is indeed a favorable situation.”
During the current season, Chase led the NFL with 127 receptions, 1,708 receiving yards, and 17 touchdown catches, making him only the sixth receiver in the Super Bowl era to achieve a receiving triple crown. Although the Bengals have secured Chase for another season with a $21.816 million fifth-year option, they aim to seal a long-term contract worth approximately $40 million annually. Meanwhile, Higgins participated under the $21.8 million franchise tag last season.
In addition to these negotiations, All-Pro edge rusher Trey Hendrickson, having recorded 17.5 sacks over the past two seasons, is in line for a pay raise. Tobin remarked on the importance of Hendrickson, describing him as a valuable asset and expressing a desire to keep him on a long-term contract.
“Trey has been instrumental since joining us,” said Tobin. “We want to ensure his continued happiness and commitment by discussing long-term possibilities. Though discussions are ongoing, finding a mutually beneficial agreement is our goal this offseason.”
After a 9-8 record last season and missing the playoffs for consecutive years following a Super Bowl appearance and an AFC championship game participation, the Bengals are determined to enhance their team dynamics.
“Our negotiations have to be mutually beneficial,” Tobin noted. “We respect our players’ desire for competitive compensation while ensuring we maintain a strong roster. We recognize the exceptional talent within our team and intend to treat our players accordingly, aligning our contracts with their unmatched skillset.”
