The Cincinnati Bengals may have cost themselves a significant amount of money by failing to secure a long-term contract extension with star wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase last offseason. Whether they underestimated the annual increase in the salary cap or gambled on Chase’s value dropping, the decision has backfired in a big way.
Rather than dwell on the lack of long-term security, Chase responded by delivering one of the greatest seasons ever by a wide receiver, solidifying his position as one of the league’s premier talents.
In his historic campaign, Chase captured the coveted Triple Crown by leading the NFL in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns. His dominance earned him a finalist spot for the AP Offensive Player of the Year Award and recognition by the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
By elevating his value with such a monumental season, Chase now holds all the leverage in contract negotiations with the Bengals. What could have been a team-friendly deal last offseason has now ballooned into a potential record-breaking contract.
Ja’Marr Chase’s New Contract Projection Shows the Bengals’ Costly Mistake
The financial difference is staggering. Spotrac’s projection for Chase’s contract extension last offseason was $120 million over four years, with an average annual value of $30 million. That deal included $46 million guaranteed at signing and $70 million partially guaranteed.
After Chase’s historic season and with the salary cap on the rise, Spotrac’s updated projection now estimates a four-year, $145 million deal, with a jaw-dropping $100 million guaranteed. That’s a $25 million increase in total value and a $54 million jump in fully guaranteed money. The average annual value has risen to $36.5 million, $6.5 million higher than last year’s estimate.
The financial impact extends beyond Chase’s contract. By failing to secure him at last year’s rate, the Bengals have less financial flexibility to address other pressing needs. What was clear to nearly everyone outside of the Bengals’ front office is now an expensive miscalculation.
Chase Deserves His Payday, and the Bengals Must Act Quickly
This situation is not on Chase. He has every right to maximize his value and shouldn’t be expected to accept a hometown discount. Through his first four seasons, Chase has cemented himself as one of the league’s elite receivers, deserving of a contract that reflects his status.
The Bengals’ failure to act last offseason has put them in a difficult position. Their priority now must be to avoid compounding their mistake by locking Chase into a long-term deal before it becomes even more costly.
