The Cincinnati Bengals have some drama this offseason as star wide receiver, Ja'Marr Chase seeks a new contract extension. He's been out of practice throughout training camp but eventually returned right before the season opener against the New England Patriots.
On Wednesday, star quarterback Joe Burrow was asked about Chase's return. Some might be worried that Chase may get off to a slow start. But Burrow used just three words to negate those doubts claiming Chase is "ready to go," according to Ian Rapoport of The NFL Network.
Cincinnati's star quarterback also admitted that the Bengals need Chase to play at their best. It's safe to say that Burrow is excited to have his star wide receiver back in action.
"Great to have him back. We need him to be at our best."
The Bengals failed to make the playoffs last year after Burrow fell to a wrist injury that sidelined him for the final stretch of the season. He and the franchise hope to bounce back in a big way despite playing in a loaded AFC North division.
Meanwhile, Chase proved to be a dominant wide receiver with and without Burrow. His consistency maintained all season long as the star wideout finished with 100 receptions (career-high), 1,216 receiving yards (career-high), and seven touchdowns.
With that in mind, Chase is still involved with some contract drama with the Bengals. He's seeking a new contract extension while having two years remaining on his current deal.
Chase is reportedly seeking a contract that is "one penny more" than Justin Jefferson's four-year deal he signed with the Minnesota Vikings, per Bryan DeArdo of CBS Sports. That means the star wide receiver wants a four-year $140 million deal.
"Chase reportedly wants an extension that is one penny more than Jefferson's four-year, $140 million extension that he signed earlier this summer."
So far, the Bengals have not paid him that money. The Cincinnati front office also had some contract drama with Tee Higgins as well. The franchise ultimately placed the franchise tag on Higgins and many believe he'll hit the free agent market in the 2025 offseason.
Ideally, both wide receivers play the full season and the Bengals go on a playoff run. That's at least what the organization is hoping for. This is a club that is built to win now while the future looks a bit questionable considering the current contract demands on the team.
Related: Bengals' Ja'Marr Chase Turning Heads With Offseason Workouts