Sources: Ja'Marr Chase believes Bengals misled him in contract talks

Ja'Marr Chase, the star wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals, feels misled by the team regarding contract extension discussions. At the end of last season and during the offseason, the Bengals indicated that an extension would be forthcoming, but this did not materialize. As a result, Chase and the Bengals have paused negotiations, likely until the end of the season, as the team traditionally refrains from negotiating during the regular season. Chase has taken proactive measures by securing a $50 million insurance policy to protect against potential injuries and lost earnings this season. The Bengals have a history of not extending contracts during the season, with the last instance occurring in 2015. Chase's camp had previously threatened to miss the first two games of the season if a deal was not reached, but he ultimately decided to play regardless of the contract situation. This decision reflects his commitment to the team, even as he remains focused on the upcoming 2024 season. Chase's situation is further complicated by the lucrative contracts awarded to other players from his draft class, such as Trevor Lawrence, who received a significant deal from the Jacksonville Jaguars. This disparity has likely contributed to Chase's frustration as he watched his peers secure high-value contracts while his own negotiations stalled. Despite the ongoing contract issues, Chase is concentrating on the Bengals' performance, particularly in their upcoming game against the Kansas City Chiefs. He has expressed confidence in the team's abilities, asserting that they are the team to beat in the AFC, and emphasizes the need for sharp preparation against Kansas City's defense.