The Cincinnati Bengals are all in for the 2025 season, committing a massive $276 million to keep their key offensive players—quarterback Joe Burrow, and wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins—on the roster for the long haul.
This financial commitment speaks volumes about the team’s strategy for continued success, particularly in light of Burrow’s standout leadership and Chase’s remarkable ability to deliver on the field.
Ja’Marr Chase Breaks Records With Historic Contract
Ja’Marr Chase has officially become the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history, securing a staggering $161 million over four years.
With this deal, Chase not only cements his status as one of the league’s top talents, but he also leads the way for future wide receiver contracts.
The deal includes $112 million in guarantees, a figure that reflects his game-changing performance on the field.
Chase’s production in the 2024 season was nothing short of legendary.
He led the NFL in receptions (127), receiving yards (1,708), and touchdown catches (17), making him just the sixth wide receiver in Super Bowl history to achieve the receiving triple crown.
is success has been instrumental in Burrow’s rise as one of the league’s elite quarterbacks, and it’s clear that the Bengals are committed to keeping that dynamic duo together for years to come.
Tee Higgins Also Gets Paid, Becomes NFL’s Highest-Paid Second Receiver
Meanwhile, Tee Higgins, another key piece of the Bengals’ offensive puzzle, has also secured a major payday.
His four-year deal is valued at $115 million, making him the highest-paid second receiver in the league.
This contract further solidifies the Bengals’ commitment to keeping their receiving corps intact as they look to build on their recent success.
Higgins, who played under the franchise tag in 2024, has been an essential part of the Bengals’ offense since joining the team in 2020.
Over his career, he’s racked up 34 touchdowns and over 4,500 receiving yards.
Despite not always having the same attention as Chase, Higgins’ contributions have been just as critical to the Bengals’ passing game.
Salary Cap Concerns and Burrow’s Role in Flexibility
With both Chase and Higgins receiving significant contracts, along with Burrow’s expected $46 million salary in 2025, the Bengals are set to allocate nearly 40% of their salary cap space toward just three players.
While that might sound like a tight squeeze, there’s still room for maneuvering, and Burrow could potentially restructure his deal to make room for further acquisitions.
Head coach Zac Taylor and director of player personnel Duke Tobin have both emphasized that while securing Chase and Higgins early on allows the Bengals to focus on building the rest of the team.
There’s no question that these moves signal a clear intent to keep the offense at the top of its game.
Bengals Look to Free Up Cap Space by Moving Trey Hendrickson
To accommodate these hefty contracts, the Bengals are reportedly looking to move All-Pro edge rusher Trey Hendrickson, who has been given permission to explore trade opportunities.
Hendrickson has been a standout performer for the Bengals since joining the team in 2021, posting 57 sacks in just three seasons.
However, with the team needing to free up cap space for other potential signings, Hendrickson’s departure could be in the cards.
Bengals Bolster Defense With New Signings
In addition to their offensive spending, the Bengals have been active on the defensive side of the ball.
They’ve re-signed defensive tackle B.J. Hill to a three-year, $33 million deal, ensuring their defense remains formidable for years to come.
Hill’s consistent production, ranking ninth among defensive tackles for run stop win rate, was crucial to the Bengals’ success last season.
Additionally, the team has added nose tackle TJ Slaton, who spent the past two seasons with the Green Bay Packers.
Slaton brings size and strength to the defensive line, and with a familiar face in coach Jerry Montgomery, he should quickly fit into the Bengals’ defensive schemes.
Samaje Perine Returns to Bengals After Stint With Chiefs
The Bengals also re-signed running back Samaje Perine to a two-year deal.
Perine played for the Bengals from 2020-2022 before spending a season with the Kansas City Chiefs.
With his versatility and experience, Perine will serve as a valuable backup to the emerging Chase Brown in 2025, providing depth to the Bengals’ backfield.
As Cincinnati prepares for another strong season, these offseason moves demonstrate their commitment to not only keeping their key stars but also building a balanced team that can compete at the highest level.
With Burrow, Chase, and Higgins locked in, the Bengals are positioning themselves to be contenders for years to come.