Ja’Marr Chase was on a mission last season when he wanted to prove to everyone that he was the best receiver in all of football. Even though the Cincinnati Bengals could not reach the playoffs, he did his part along with quarterback Joe Burrow and fellow receiver Tee Higgins .
The trio spearheaded one of the best offenses the league saw last season. The result, both wideouts were looking to earn top tier contracts, and it was expected that Ja’Marr Chase at least would break the bank. The situation with Higgins was unclear after the Bengals franchise tagged for the second year in a row.
It seems they had a plan in mind as they were working the last minute details of the contracts. Then came the news that Chase signed a contract that made him the highest-paid non-QB in the league. Football fans were not completely surprised by this news.
But they were genuinely surprised when Tee Higgins also received a long-term contract. Now, the Bengals have two elite wideouts locked down for the immediate future. Earlier today, both of them flew in via private jet to attend a press conference. The WR1 was asked why he believes the Bengals give him a chance to succeed.
I like Cincinnati because it gives me to opportunity to focus. I’m not distracted. There’s not too many things to get me off pace. Food is not the best. We can work on that.
Ja’Marr Chase said
This comment drew a bout of laughter from everyone inside the media room. He clarified that he is from New Orleans, therefore, the food in Cincinnati, Ohio, is a major adjustment for him. The WR then said that other than that, the place is distraction free, which is good for him.
Tee Higgins has heartfelt message after signing mega deal
Tee Higgins, on the other hand, did not have much to complain. He was grateful to secure a long-term future, as he has always been a Cincinnati Bengals fan. The WR had to give gratitude to those who are dear to him.
Ma, I love you. I did this for us. You ain’t gotta worry about nothing else. This is for pops, too.
Tee Higgins said
The 4-year $115 million contract at least secures him for the next two seasons. He must be aware that the team will look to restructure his contract before year three starts. By then, the combined cap hit of both Higgins and Chase will be astronomical.
The team still needs to get Trey Hendrickson signed to a long-term deal. Joe Burrow has made it clear he wants the team’s leading stars back. Along with them, they still have to bring in additions. The defense needs a play a lot better if this highly paid offense can help lead them to a Super Bowl.
Joe Burrow welcomes Ja’Marr Chase and Higgins with a big hug
The press conference was all about the two leading receivers. The Bengals picked them up in their private jet and made the entire event all about them. It was a move to make them feel special. Usually, many would expect Joe Burrow to be present at the press conference.
That is what usually team leaders or primary superstars do. But Burrow was not present. Eventually, the Cincinnati Bengals released a clip on their social media pages, revealing that Burrow was in their locker room the entire time.
The video also shows the superstar QB congratulating Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase with big hugs. In a way, Burrow staying away from the presser was a way of staying out of the way of his wideouts. He probably knew it was their time to shine. Had he stepped in, media present would have tried to focus on him.