Ja’Marr Chase, the wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals, will not participate in the upcoming game against the New England Patriots due to a one-game suspension that has been officially upheld. This decision was confirmed by hearing officer Jordy Nelson, who was jointly appointed by the NFL and the NFL Players Association (NFLPA). The announcement, made on March 10, 2024, means Chase will miss the game scheduled for this Sunday.
The suspension stems from an incident during the Bengals’ recent game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, where Chase was involved in a confrontation with Steelers defensive back Jalen Ramsey. In the fourth quarter of the match, which ended in a 34-12 loss for the Bengals, Chase spat at Ramsey after the latter grabbed him by the face mask and subsequently punched him, resulting in Ramsey’s ejection from the game.
Chase has publicly denied the allegation of spitting, insisting that he did not engage in such behavior. Despite his claims, video evidence obtained by a local television station in Cincinnati captured the incident, leading to the disciplinary action from the NFL.
The league stated that Chase’s suspension falls under a rule addressing “any act which is contrary to the generally understood principles of sportsmanship.” As a consequence of this suspension, Chase will forfeit a significant portion of his earnings, estimated at $448,333.33 in base salary.
The Bengals will have to adjust their strategy for the game against the Patriots without their star receiver. With Chase sidelined, the team faces the challenge of filling the void left by one of their most dynamic players.
