Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins ended the 2024 season on a disappointing note as the Cincinnati Bengals finished with an 8-9 record, falling short in the competitive AFC North. With the spotlight now on the 2025 season, the Bengals have made a significant financial commitment to their receiving tandem through a combined $276 million in contract extensions.
Chase secured a four-year, $161 million contract that briefly made him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history until TJ Watt’s extension surpassed it. Meanwhile, Higgins avoided the franchise tag by signing a four-year, $115 million deal. Their contracts position them as the NFL’s highest-paid wide receiver duo, overtaking the Philadelphia Eagles’ AJ Brown and DeVonta Smith. This Tee Higgins Bengals contract extension is a clear signal that the franchise expects them to deliver heightened performance and lead the team back to postseason contention.
Pressure Mounts to Match Expectations on the Field
With this level of investment, Chase and Higgins carry the weight of high expectations not only from the Cincinnati Bengals organization but also from the fanbase and media. Chase said,
“I’m pretty sure that’s the big thing Cincinnati wants us to do, too. And not just Cincinnati, the fans and everyone around. You got to prove ourselves all over again.”
—Ja’Marr Chase, Wide Receiver
Alongside quarterback Joe Burrow, Chase and Higgins form a potent offensive trio capable of breaking down formidable NFL defenses. However, the Bengals’ defense struggled throughout the previous season, allowing an average of 348.3 yards and conceding 53 touchdowns across 17 games. This defensive weakness played a crucial role in the team’s failure to secure a playoff berth.
As a result, the responsibility on Chase and Higgins increases, intensifying the urgency for the offense to compensate and improve their output. Their chemistry with Burrow remains a key factor as Cincinnati looks to return to postseason play, which they last achieved in the 2022 season.
Defensive Challenges Threaten Team’s Balance
The Bengals’ defensive shortcomings led to significant changes after the 2024 season. Defensive Coordinator Lou Anarumo was replaced by former Notre Dame coach Al Golden following the team’s weak defensive statistics. Yet, Cincinnati still faces uncertainty on defense heading into training camp.
Star pass rusher Trey Hendrickson might depart if he does not receive a contract comparable to TJ Watt’s lucrative deal. Additionally, first-round rookie defensive end Shemar Stewart remains unsigned as camp begins, posing a risk to the team’s defensive depth and continuity.
Bengals rookies report to training camp today with Cincinnati’s first-round pick Shemar Stewart now being the lone unsigned first-round pick from this year’s draft class. pic.twitter.com/D6r5HrOryy— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 19, 2025
The Bengals’ management, led by general manager Duke Tobin, must prioritize securing Stewart and retaining Hendrickson to prevent the defense from similar struggles witnessed last season.
Preparation and Training: How Chase and Higgins Are Sharpening Their Skills
During the NFL offseason, Ja’Marr Chase took an opportunity to train with Bengals legend Chad Johnson, focusing on techniques to overcome elite cornerbacks. Meanwhile, Tee Higgins worked separately alongside Denver Broncos receiver Courtland Sutton and former Alabama and Cleveland Browns wideout Jerry Jeudy.
Johnson’s guidance emphasized how to outmaneuver top defensive backs like reigning Defensive Player of the Year Patrick Surtain II. However, Surtain proved to be a formidable challenge during these drills. One fan even joked,
“Surtain will use this video in his next contract negotiations.”
Chase will not face Surtain in the 2025 season because the Bengals do not play against the Broncos that year. However, he will face Jerry Jeudy twice, including the Bengals’ season opener at Cleveland and their Week 18 matchup.
Historical Rivalries and Upcoming Matchups to Watch
The Bengals and Cleveland Browns have a significant rivalry history, with Cincinnati holding a 55-48 win record and currently on a three-game winning streak against Cleveland. Chase has played seven games against the Browns, tallying 38 receptions for 404 yards and three touchdowns during those encounters.
The Bengals opening game on the road and the season finale at home against the Browns will test their preparedness and resolve, with playoff aspirations hanging in the balance. Success against divisional rivals is crucial for Cincinnati’s path back to the postseason and for Chase and Higgins to validate their contract investments.
Outlook for the Bengals Heading Into 2025
The Bengals enter the 2025 season with a star-studded offense supported by the league’s highest-paid wide receiver duo in Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase. Coupled with Joe Burrow at quarterback, Cincinnati’s offensive potential is formidable, but the defense remains the critical area for improvement.
If the Bengals can resolve key defensive personnel issues, including retaining Hendrickson and signing Stewart, they stand a strong chance to compete within the AFC North and secure a playoff spot. For Chase and Higgins, the season presents a pivotal moment to prove the value of their substantial contracts and carry the Bengals back to success.