Bengals Make Ja'Marr Chase Highest-Paid Non-Quarterback in NFL History with New Contract Extension

The Cincinnati Bengals have officially locked in Joe Burrow’s top playmakers for the next four years, as star receivers Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins signed massive contract extensions, according to Monday's reports.

Ja'Marr Chase’s deal is one for the history books, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. While Higgins didn’t quite hit the same stratosphere, he’s now the highest-paid No. 2 receiver ever—a title to be proud of, especially given his consistency on the field.

Details of Chase's blockbuster deal reveal a four-year extension worth $161 million, with a jaw-dropping $112 million guaranteed. This puts him ahead of Myles Garrett’s previous record of $40 million per year. Not bad for a guy who’s been breaking records left and right since joining the league. The Bengals’ director of player personnel, Duke Tobin, had hinted at such a monumental deal during the NFL Scouting Combine last month, stating the goal was to set a new standard for wideouts. Well, mission accomplished.

Tobin commented, "He is going to end up being the No. 1 paid non-quarterback in the league. We’re there. Let’s get it done." He also emphasized the importance of getting these major deals out of the way early to focus on bolstering the rest of the team. Smart strategy, but wow, talk about priorities.

Chase didn’t disappoint during a challenging season for the Bengals. Despite the team missing the playoffs for the second year in a row, he became only the sixth receiver in the Super Bowl era to lead the league in receptions, yards receiving, and touchdown catches in a single season. If you’re going to demand top dollar, might as well back it up with top-tier performance.

Meanwhile, Tee Higgins also secured a four-year extension reportedly worth $115 million. Drafted in the second round alongside Burrow, Higgins has consistently proven his mettle as a reliable No. 2. His stats speak volumes: 73 receptions for 911 yards and 10 touchdown catches last season, tying for sixth in that category across the league.

With these deals, the Bengals have solidified arguably the best receiver duo in the NFL, ensuring Burrow has the weapons to aim for Super Bowl glory in the coming seasons. Now, if only they can patch up other areas of the roster, fans might start dreaming about a parade in Cincinnati.