Predicting next NFL extensions after Garett Bolles, Broncos agree to 4-year contract | News, results, highlights, stats and rumours

Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase is having an incredible season, even as his team is struggling. He’s already amassed 1,319 receiving yards with a month to go, and the Bengals would be wise to keep Joe Burrow’s top target in-house for the long haul.

However, Chase has been eligible for an extension since last offseason, and Cincinnati doesn’t necessarily need to rush to sign him to a new deal. He’s going to top Justin Jefferson’s four years, $140 million contract when he signs, and there isn’t another receiver who can reset the market before then.

However, Chase could still see an extension before the end of the year if Cincinnati commits to bringing back fellow wideout Tee Higgins.

Higgins is currently on the franchise tag and cannot be extended until the offseason. As Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay recently noted, Higgins’ next deal will likely shape the entire 2025 receiver market.

Bengals players, including Burrow, want to see Higgins return.

Locking up Chase now could help the Bengals — who have just $6.5 million in cap space but are projected to have $59.7 million in 2025 — decide what kind of offer to make Higgins this spring. It could also help Cincinnati begin the negotiation process with Higgins.

According to Kelsey Conway of Cincinnati Enquirer, Higgins recently hired Chase’s agent, Rocky Arceneaux.

The Bengals could, in a way, start making new deals with both receivers at the same time.

Contract projection: Four years, $145 million with $90 million guaranteed