Cincinnati Bengals Lock in Chase, Higgins with Massive Extensions

CINCINNATI — The Bengals ended months of speculation Sunday by agreeing to terms on four-year contract extensions with star wide receivers Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero reported[2]. Chase, the Bengals' top wideout and a former LSU teammate of quarterback Joe Burrow, signed for $161 million with $112 million guaranteed, averaging a record $40.25 million per year — the highest for any non-quarterback in NFL history[1][2]. Higgins, who played under the franchise tag last season amid trade rumors, secured a four-year, $115 million deal guaranteed for the first two years, preserving Cincinnati's dynamic duo[1][2]. The extensions, confirmed by the players to Fox Sports, conclude prolonged negotiations and eliminate distractions ahead of the 2026 campaign[1]. Chase's deal runs through 2029 when he turns 29, though a recent Seattle Seahawks pact with Jaxon Smith-Njigba at $168.6 million and $42.15 million annually has already topped it[3]. For Bengals brass in Paul Brown Stadium, the moves solidify an offense that has kept Cincinnati contending, including narrow playoff misses in recent years despite Burrow's elite play[4]. Ohio's Bengals faithful, from Cincinnati's riverfront to Hamilton County's tailgates, now eye a roster bolstered for AFC North battles against the Ravens and Steelers. The financial commitments — straining cap space but fueling contention — pair Chase and Higgins with Burrow's precision passing, a trio credited with stretching defenses and explosive plays[4]. With drama over hold-ins and trades resolved, the Bengals shift focus to training camp at the team's Ohio River-adjacent facility[4].