More positive buzz on Bengals and Chase making progress on extension (UPDATE)

Latest Update: Exciting news has emerged regarding the Bengals’ efforts to secure a new contract for Ja’Marr Chase.

NFL insider Ian Rapoport revealed that the Bengals have put forth substantial offers to Chase, which align closely with his expectations. While a deal is not yet imminent, there is a growing sense of optimism surrounding the negotiations. This progress prompted Chase to return to practice on Wednesday.

Read on for the full update.

The timeline for contract discussions is nearing its end, with Sunday looming as the likely deadline. The key question remains: If an agreement is not reached, will Chase accept the terms and continue playing, or will he opt to sit out regular-season games?

Let’s hope it doesn’t come to that.

Just before the start of the 2023 NFL season, the Cincinnati Bengals made headlines by extending quarterback Joe Burrow’s contract, elevating him to one of the highest-paid players in the sport’s history. This announcement coincided with the Kansas City Chiefs’ season opener on Thursday Night Football.

As the Chiefs gear up to face the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday night, rumors suggest positive developments in the negotiations between the Bengals and star wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase.

According to Albert Breer, the delay in negotiations was linked to CeeDee Lamb’s contract situation. With Lamb’s extension now settled, it could serve as a catalyst in breaking the impasse.

Breer noted, “Lamb’s deal solidifies Jefferson’s contract as the benchmark for top-tier receivers, establishing the expected cost for signing Chase and hinting at potential future increases in expenses.”

The Bengals have evidently prioritized Chase over Tee Higgins, who was offered the franchise tag but no further extension. With Lamb’s deal setting a clear precedent, Chase’s contract negotiations may be nearing a resolution.

Ian Rapoport indicated that both parties have shown progress in recent discussions.

Rapoport stated, “Negotiations are ongoing to make Chase one of the highest-paid receivers in the NFL, potentially surpassing Justin Jefferson’s contract. While there has been some advancement, a final agreement has yet to be reached.”

Echoing Rapoport’s sentiments, Jeremy Fowler suggested that the Bengals are intensifying their efforts to finalize a deal.

Fowler remarked, “Recent reports indicate the Bengals are ramping up their negotiations to bring Chase back to practice. The aim is to secure a contract exceeding $30 million annually.”

According to The Athletic’s Dianna Russini, the Bengals are including Chase in their plans for the upcoming matchup against the New England Patriots, indicating their anticipation of his participation.

Furthermore, The 33rd Team’s Ari Meirov reported significant progress over the weekend in bridging the gap with Chase, fostering optimism for an imminent agreement.

So, what could a potential Ja’Marr Chase extension entail?

NFL salary cap expert Andrew Perrota outlined a projection for Chase’s contract, envisioning him as the highest-paid wide receiver globally.

With Labor Day passed, the Bengals face a ticking clock of just over 48 hours to secure a deal before the season opener. While Thursday night’s game does not preclude negotiations, time is of the essence. The potential scenario of Chase holding out without a new contract remains a looming possibility, one that neither party has ruled out.

Given the Bengals’ aspirations for a strong start and the pivotal Week 2 clash against the Chiefs, having Chase on the field is imperative. The dynamic duo of Chase and Burrow at full throttle is a game-changer, a fact acknowledged by both the team and the player. It’s now time for both sides to find common ground.

Here’s hoping that the Bengals and Chase can reach an agreement in the coming days and finalize the deal before Sunday’s opener against the New England Patriots.