Why Bengals should be more proactive in Ja'Marr Chase contract talks

At his football camp last week, Chase implied he and the Bengals have yet to discuss his contract via Olivia Ray of WLWT-TV in Cincinnati.

In late April, the Bengals exercised Chase's fifth-year option, meaning he's under contract with the team through 2025. However, other wideouts have received massive paydays this offseason.

The Philadelphia Eagles signed WR A.J. Brown to a three-year, $96M deal, while the Detroit Lions gave Amon-Ra St. Brown a four-year, $120.01M contract. Chase may feel the Bengals should also show him the money.

In 16 games last season, Chase — a three-time Pro Bowler — recorded 100 receptions for 1,216 yards and seven touchdown catches. 

Remember that Bengals starting quarterback Joe Burrow missed seven games last season after suffering a season-ending right wrist injury in Week 11 against the Baltimore Ravens. 

Spotrac estimates Chase's market value is a three-year deal worth $30.2M annually, second among WRs. The projected deal would diminish Cincinnati's future cap space. Although it's an expensive move, it could be worthwhile for the Bengals. Plus, the price could soar if they wait for too long.

"If I were the Bengals, I would probably sign Chase as soon as possible to avoid resetting the market after [CeeDee Lamb's] and [Justin Jefferson's] deals come in," wrote ex-general manager and The Athletic contributor Randy Mueller. "Cincinnati already appears to be planning to let Tee Higgins walk after this season, which might necessitate another high NFL Draft investment at the position next year."