Bengals Extend Ja'Marr Chase $161M Record-Setting Contract

The Cincinnati Bengals have secured their star wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase with a groundbreaking four-year, $161 million contract extension that includes $74 million fully guaranteed at signing and $112 million in total guarantees, marking one of the most player-friendly deals in NFL history for a non-quarterback. Chase, who led the NFL in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns in 2024, is predicted by analysts to potentially become the first receiver to surpass 2,000 receiving yards in a single season in 2025, as the Bengals rely heavily on their elite offense. Meanwhile, the AFC North has strengthened defensively with the Pittsburgh Steelers acquiring cornerback Jalen Ramsey and Darius Slay, intensifying matchups for Chase and the Bengals, with Chase posting a cryptic social media message following Ramsey's trade. The Steelers traded safety Minkah Fitzpatrick to the Miami Dolphins in the deal for Ramsey, a move that analysts believe gives Pittsburgh a defensive advantage and poses challenges for the Dolphins. These developments position the Bengals for a strong offensive showing in 2025 while facing tougher defensive competition within their division.