Robert Griffin III credits Joe Burrow for securing monster deals for Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins

The Cincinnati Bengals lead, charged by Joe Burrow, a struggling attempt to climb up the ladder and qualify for the playoffs.

Robert Griffin III credits Joe Burrow for securing monster deals for Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins

Ja’Marr Chase, Joe Burrow, Tee Higgins (Image via The Sporting News)

The Cincinnati Bengals have secured their elite passing attack by locking down wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins on lucrative new contracts. And Joe Burrow is the happiest man on earth after the momentous decision.

The Super Bowl LVI losing quarterback Burrow had been very vocal about the need for the two wideouts in his squad. He has admitted multiple times that the Bengals should somehow retain them and shrugged off the salary cap. Burrow pointed out the Philadelphia Eagles and how they have managed to include several big names.

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As Burrow’s dream came true, former player Robert Griffin III highlighted the former’s role in securing the deals. In his tweet, he praised the two time NFL Comeback Player of the Year for his utmost loyalty towards his offensive line. He went on to note that the player drew a line and stood on business for his friends.

Joe Burrow a real one for STANDING ON BUSINESS for his Brothers. Told the Bengals he wanted Ja’marr Chase AND Tee Higgins to stay in long Cincinati long term and next thing you know THEY BOTH GOT PAID over $100 million. That’s a REAL BROTHER right there.

Robert Griffin III posted on X

Ja’Marr Chase’s four-year, $161 million deal makes him the NFL’s highest-paid non-quarterback at $40.25 million per season, narrowly surpassing Myles Garrett’s recent extension.

Higgins, meanwhile, signed a four-year, $115 million deal, making him the highest-paid No. 2 receiver in the league. With both playmakers locked in alongside quarterback Joe Burrow, the Bengals now boast the most expensive passing trio in the NFL, ensuring stability for their high-powered offense.

Without a strong defense, all the offensive star power would be obsolete for the Bengals

The Cincinnati Bengals’ defense remains a concern, having ranked among the worst in points allowed last season. Defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo was dismissed, but the team has made minimal moves to bolster its defense, with the signing of defensive tackle T.J. Slaton being their only major addition.

Additionally, star pass rusher Trey Hendrickson, the league’s sack leader over the past two seasons, has requested a trade due to dissatisfaction with his contract. It has definitely added another layer of uncertainty to the Bengals’ defensive future.

Tee Higgins and Ja'Marr Chase
Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase (Image via ESPN)

While Burrow and the Bengals’ offense will continue to shine, their success hinges on defensive improvements. The team scored over 32 points in seven games last season but held a disappointing 3-4 record in those matchups due to their inability to contain opponents.

Keeping Hendrickson or finding a suitable replacement will be crucial for the Cincinnati Bengals. More so if they aim to complement their record-breaking offense with a more reliable defense to compete for a championship.

The Cincinnati Bengals currently possess an estimated $26.8 million in available salary cap space. However, strategic roster enhancements, particularly the above-mentioned defensive reinforcements, may necessitate further financial flexibility.

What can the Bengals do? Consequently, the restructuring of quarterback Joe Burrow’s existing contract, a 5-year, $275 million agreement, presents a viable option. The contractual structure affords the Bengals the ability to either defer cap charges to subsequent fiscal years or convert portions of his compensation into signing bonuses, thereby creating immediate cap relief.

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