Ja’Marr Chase Set to Become the Highest-Paid Non-QB in NFL History
Cincinnati’s front office isn’t messing around when it comes to Ja’Marr Chase’s next contract. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Chase’s deal is projected to land between $40.2 million to $41 million per season, surpassing Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett’s recent record-setting extension. This would also put Chase ahead of fellow elite receivers Justin Jefferson ($35M per year) and CeeDee Lamb ($34M per year), cementing his status as the top-earning wideout in football
At the NFL Scouting Combine, Bengals general manager Duke Tobin made it clear: Chase is the team’s top priority. “He’s a fantastic football player. He’s going to end up being the No. 1 paid non-QB in the league. We’re there. Let’s get it done,” Tobin said.
While Chase is grabbing the headlines, Tee Higgins is also in line for a significant extension. After receiving the franchise tag for a second straight season, reports indicate that the Bengals are close to a long-term deal with Higgins that could be worth $30 million per year.
How Can the Bengals Afford These Deals?
The Bengals have $26.9 million in available cap space for the 2025 league year, according to Overthecap.com. While that number might seem tight, the front office has been strategically managing its finances. Tobin emphasized that the team wants a “high payroll and low dead money”, meaning the money is going to the players actually on the field, not wasted on past contracts.
By locking in Chase and Higgins, the Bengals are making it clear—they’re all in. With Burrow, Chase, and Higgins together for the long term, Cincinnati’s offense has the firepower to compete with anyone. Now, it’s just a matter of finalizing the paperwork and getting these stars paid
