“There are expectations, the standard is high,” Chase said, according to team reporter Geoff Hobson. “Just have fun and play my game, but also know I’m holding myself to a higher standard now. Higher than whatever it was.”
The All-Pro receiver led the league with 127 receptions, 1,708 receiving yards, and 17 touchdowns during his prolific 2024 campaign. Chase became the first player in NFL history with at least 100 catches, 1,700 yards and 17 scores in a season. Despite posting career highs in virtually every statistical category in his fourth season, the 25-year-old is confident that he can continue to elevate his game.
“Get better at everything I can do,” Chase added.
The Bengals rewarded Chase with a four-year, $161-million extension in March following his career year. His new deal, which carries an annual average salary of $40.2 million, makes him the highest-paid non-quarterback in league history.
While Chase has received praise for his individual accolades, the Bengals wideout insists that he has “a lot” of team goals after setting single-season franchise records last year.
“Championships. Playoffs. Not just accolades. Being a leader. There’s a lot more,” Chase said.
Cincinnati made a Super Bowl appearance during Chase’s rookie campaign in 2021. The Bengals nearly returned to the big game the following season, falling to the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Championship Game. The club hasn’t made the playoffs since, having posted a 9-8 record in both 2023 and 2024.
After ensuring Chase and fellow receiver Tee Higgins would stay in Cincinnati for the foreseeable future, the Bengals are poised to return most of the pieces from an offense that led the NFL last season with 272.9 passing yards per game and averaged 27.8 points per contest.
