Bengals Near Final Deals for Chase, Higgins Amid Contract Talks

CINCINNATI — The Cincinnati Bengals are reportedly close to finalizing contract extensions for star wide receivers Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. According to NFL insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero, both deals could be completed in the coming days, offering a hopeful outlook for Bengals fans.

Ja’Marr Chase, entering the final season of his rookie contract, is expected to secure a deal averaging between $40.1 million and $41 million per year, which would make him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history, surpassing the previous record set by the Cleveland Browns’ Myles Garrett, who signed for $40 million per season.

Tee Higgins, who received the franchise tag for the second consecutive year, is expected to finalize a deal worth upwards of $28 million annually. Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow has been vocal about the importance of retaining both players, underscoring their crucial roles in the team’s offensive strategy.

The anticipated contracts come on the heels of a busy week for the Bengals, where they also re-signed defensive tackle D.J. Reader to a three-year deal and secured tight end Irv Smith Jr. for three years as well. These moves indicate the team’s commitment to bolstering their roster heading into the new season.

During the past season, Chase had a breakout year, leading the NFL with 127 receptions, 1,708 receiving yards, and 17 receiving touchdowns, marking him as a contender for the AP’s Most Valuable Player and Offensive Player of the Year awards. He became the fifth player since the Super Bowl era to achieve the receiving triple crown.

Higgins, despite missing five games due to injury, recorded 73 catches for 911 yards and 10 touchdowns, remaining a reliable asset in Cincinnati’s offense. His performance, alongside Chase, has formed one of the league’s most formidable receiving duos.

“People would love to have them back,” Bengals defensive end Joseph Ossai said. “The confidence they bring to the team is undeniable. You can win any game with Ja’Marr and Tee as a tandem.”

The Bengals, coming off a downturn last season where they failed to reach the playoffs, are looking to re-establish themselves as strong contenders in the AFC. By securing the future of Chase and Higgins, the organization hopes to bolster their strategic advantages and re-engage fans ahead of the upcoming season.

The progress on these contract negotiations signifies a shift in Cincinnati’s direction, as the front office aims to maintain their offensive core and reclaim playoff contention. The urgency surrounding these deals reflects a league-wide trend prioritizing key talent retention, which could reshape the competitive landscape of the NFL.