Two of the NFL's most prominent wide receivers, Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, have officially agreed to long-term contract extensions with the Cincinnati Bengals. This pivotal news was announced on March 16, 2025, signaling the Bengals' commitment to retaining their star duo who play key roles on their high-powered offense.
Chase, who recently turned 25, has signed a remarkable four-year contract worth $161 million, which includes $112 million guaranteed. With this deal, he becoming the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. Meanwhile, Higgins, aged 26, has secured his own four-year deal amounting to $115 million, characterized by guaranteed pay for the first two years and positioning him as the highest-paid No. 2 wide receiver.
This momentous event not only cements Chase’s status among the league’s elite but also ensures the Bengals maintain their offensive firepower moving forward. The team, featuring Chase and Higgins alongside quarterback Joe Burrow, dominated the passing charts last season. Chase led the NFL with 127 receptions, 1,708 receiving yards, and 17 touchdowns, achieving the receiving triple crown, previously only matched by four other players since the AFL-NFL merger.
“We’re paying guys for what they’re going to give us,” stated Duke Tobin, Bengals' director of player personnel, during the league's scouting combine. His comments reinforce the franchise's strategy to invest significantly in players who have proven their value on the field. Following the successes of the past seasons, it was evident the Bengals needed to secure their standout receivers to keep the passing attack intact.
Burrow has consistently advocated for both players to receive extensions, acknowledging their contributions and talent. “Tee plays such a big part in what we do here and has for five years now,” Burrow emphasized, noting Higgins’ integral role within the team.
The continuation of the Chase-Higgins connection is not just beneficial for their playing statistics; it is also pivotal for the Bengals' aspirations. Cincinnati's offense has established itself as one of the NFL's most powerful, evidenced through their ranking as the top passing offense during the 2024 season with notable stats—averaging 272.9 passing yards per game and scoring 43 touchdowns.
Both players faced contract challenges leading up to these agreements. Chase had previously staged a “hold-in” during training camp, expressing discontent over his rookie contract. He was set to play under the fifth-year option resulting from the Bengals picking it up, yet managed to use the blowback as motivation, demonstrating excellent performance throughout the season. Similarly, Higgins was franchise tagged for the second consecutive year and had previously expressed concern over his contract situation, even requesting to be traded after being tagged initially.
“We have several guys like Chase who have stepped up for us and deserved to be paid,” Burrow stated, clearly echoed the sentiments of the fans who have been eager to see their star players rewarded fairly.
The Bengals’ skirmishes over contracts turned out to be an obstacle but with these recent signings, they can now focus on building on their successes and aiming for greater achievements. Cincinnati is seeking to return to the postseason after narrowly missing playoff advancement with a 9-8 record last season, following back-to-back AFC Championship appearances prior.
With Chase and Higgins secured, the Bengals are placing their pieces back together to make another serious run as contenders and have committed to retaining the players who have demonstrated not just skill, but also tenacity, leadership, and game-changing abilities.
Chase’s record-setting contract breaks the previous annual salary standard by non-quarterbacks established by Myles Garrett, and the Bengals made it clear they were ready to invest heavily to secure their future. This signals to fans and the league alike the Bengals' serious intent to build around their successful core players.
“He works for it. He grinds for it. He’s a once-in-a-lifetime-type player,” Burrow said, highlighting the special bond and synergy the two players have developed since entering the league. Their enduring partnership dating back to LSU football will likely be one of the pivotal narratives to follow as the Bengals aim for more titles.
Ensuring Chase and Higgins remain with the Bengals reinforces their commitment to success and stability. The team now has the opportunity to strengthen its offensive and defensive lines as they look forward to solidifying their status as one of the preeminent powerhouses of the NFL.
Overall, this contract extension not only benefits the players but also helps the Bengals cement their reputation as fierce competitors and secure the foundation of their championship ambitions.