Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Jalen Ramsey has made it clear that he plans to cover Cincinnati Bengals’ standout receiver Ja’Marr Chase when the teams meet this season. Although Ramsey shares the role of the Steelers’ top cornerback with Joey Porter Jr., the seven-time Pro Bowler said he will take on the challenge of guarding the Bengals’ primary wideout in this anticipated matchup.
Asked directly on The Pivot podcast who would cover Chase, Ramsey confidently responded,
“That’s 5 for now. That’s 5. I know that’s what Joey wants as well. And he’s going to get his [opportunities]. But, that’s 5 for now. That’s 5.”
This assertive statement signals Ramsey’s intent to match up against one of the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL’s elite receivers during a game that fans will eagerly watch.
Respect and Rivalry Fuel Ramsey’s Motivation
Ramsey’s confidence does not reflect any disrespect toward Chase, but rather admiration for the receiver’s exceptional talents. Chase, in just his second season, made history by leading the league in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns, becoming only the fifth player since 1970 to accomplish that feat.
Ramsey acknowledged Chase’s elite ability, recalling their encounter in Super Bowl LVI where Chase caught five passes for 89 yards against Ramsey’s Los Angeles Rams defense. He remarked, “He’s the one, too,” highlighting Chase’s impact and hinting at the excitement this upcoming contest will create.
Transitioning Roles and New Defensive Dynamics in Pittsburgh
With the Steelers, Ramsey is adjusting to a new position, moving from cornerback to free safety. He will be taking over for Minkah Fitzpatrick, who had intense battles with Chase over five seasons before his move to the Miami Dolphins. Although Fitzpatrick is no longer in Pittsburgh, Ramsey’s presence ensures the Bengals-Steelers rivalry remains fierce, with another All-Pro defender ready to challenge Chase.
Despite the position change, Ramsey will continue to see time at cornerback, sharing the defensive backfield with Joey Porter Jr. and six-time Pro Bowler Darius Slay. Ramsey praised Porter’s competitive drive by comparing him to former Jaguars teammate A.J. Bouye, saying,
“That mindset is crazy. … It’s gonna be a match made in heaven. We’re going to feed off each other, and Slay, if you want to hop in there too, you come on. But if you want to dominate the twos or the three, you do that, too. So it’s going to be fun, for sure.”
What This Means for the Upcoming Bengals Clash
The Steelers’ defensive secondary boasts talent and ambition, but when it comes to the Ja’Marr Chase Bengals matchup, Ramsey will take the lead. While Porter and Slay will have chances to shine throughout the season, Ramsey’s decisive statement leaves no doubt that he plans to be the main shadow to Chase during this highly anticipated game. This showdown promises to be a highlight of the NFL schedule, showcasing a high-stakes battle between one of the league’s top receivers and one of its premier defenders.