Ja'Marr Chase Contract Talks with Bengals Stall Over Guaranteed Money Timing
Despite nearing a lucrative deal, the Bengals and Chase couldn't finalize an extension before Week 1 due to disagreements on when guarantees would take effect.
- Ja'Marr Chase and the Cincinnati Bengals were close to agreeing on a four-year, $140 million contract with $90 million guaranteed.
- The primary sticking point in negotiations was the timing of when the guaranteed money would be paid out.
- Chase played in Week 1 against the New England Patriots, recording six catches for 62 yards despite limited practice during the offseason.
- Chase expressed a desire to surpass Justin Jefferson's contract, aiming for a deal that would reset the market for wide receivers.
- With no official deadline for an extension, negotiations could continue into the season, but Chase's mental deadline was before the season started.