Overview

• The Bengals are preparing to make Ja'Marr Chase the highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL, with a contract expected to exceed $40 million annually.
• Tee Higgins, who played last season on a $21.8 million franchise tag, is a priority for a long-term deal, though the franchise tag remains an option if negotiations stall.
• Director of player personnel Duke Tobin expressed optimism about retaining both star receivers, emphasizing their importance to quarterback Joe Burrow and the team's dynamic offense.
• All-Pro edge rusher Trey Hendrickson, coming off back-to-back 17.5-sack seasons, is also in line for a contract extension, adding further complexity to the Bengals' salary cap management.
• Bengals leadership, including Tobin and head coach Zac Taylor, highlighted the challenge of balancing these major contracts while improving a roster that missed the playoffs the past two seasons.