As Ja’Marr Chase navigates contract negotiations with the Cincinnati Bengals, a rumor has been circulating that he’s aiming for his next deal to be just one penny higher than the record-breaking contract his close friend and former college teammate, Justin Jefferson, signed with the Minnesota Vikings earlier this year. However, Chase put that speculation to rest during a media session on Friday.
“If I want to beat Justin, I want to beat the shit out of Justin,” Chase joked, drawing laughter from reporters. “Not by a penny, bro.”
Chase’s lighthearted response made it clear that while friendly competition with Jefferson exists, he’s not interested in outdoing his friend by such a narrow margin or by resetting the market in an exaggerated way.
“I’m not really looking to go a lot higher,” Chase explained. “It’s not about trying to outdo him or go crazy. It’s just about what’s right for both sides, and there’s a lot to consider, including longevity.”
Chase’s reference to “longevity” suggests he’s thinking beyond just the immediate financial gain. While the specifics of his contract remain under wraps, the All-Pro wide receiver seems focused on securing a deal that will not only reflect his value but also ensure long-term stability for both him and the Bengals.
Despite the ongoing negotiations, Chase said the two sides are “pretty close” to reaching an agreement. However, he also expressed a desire to put the contract talks to bed soon, ideally by Sunday. If no deal is reached by then, Chase hinted that his availability for the Bengals’ upcoming game could become a “game-time decision.”
This situation adds a layer of intrigue for Bengals fans, who are eager to see how the team will lock up their star wideout long-term. Chase, one of the most dynamic players in the NFL, has been instrumental in Cincinnati’s recent success, and keeping him in a Bengals uniform is crucial for the team’s future.
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Justin Jefferson’s record-setting contract, which he signed earlier this year, made him the highest-paid wide receiver in NFL history, further elevating the benchmark for elite players at the position. Chase’s deal will likely be in the same range, though it’s clear he’s not driven by simply eclipsing his friend’s payday.
Chase’s friendship and competitive bond with Jefferson, dating back to their time as LSU teammates, has been well-documented. The two helped lead LSU to a national championship in 2019, and both have gone on to become two of the brightest stars in the NFL. However, their paths to new contracts have unfolded differently, with Jefferson already securing his historic deal, while Chase continues to work through the process.
Although Chase dismissed the idea of aiming for a penny more than Jefferson’s contract, his playful comments reflect a healthy rivalry between two of the league’s top receivers. “I want to beat him on the field, not in contract negotiations,” Chase added with a smile, emphasizing that his focus remains on football and contributing to the Bengals’ success.
As the Bengals and Chase’s camp work toward finalizing his next contract, fans are left wondering when the deal will get done and if Chase will suit up for the team’s next game. Regardless of the timing, it’s clear Chase is not only focused on getting what he deserves but also on ensuring the team’s future is set up for success.
With Chase being one of the cornerstones of the Bengals’ offense, locking him into a long-term contract is a top priority. And while his remarks on Friday were delivered with humor, the seriousness of his commitment to the Bengals and his future with the team is undeniable.
