Ja’Marr Chase had a remarkably quiet afternoon during the Cincinnati Bengals’ 33-27 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The star receiver finished with just two receptions for 12 yards, immediately prompting questions about his involvement.

The media quickly wondered whether Chase felt frustrated by the lack of targets. After all, Cincinnati relies heavily on its connection between Chase and Joe Burrow, making his limited production unusual.

Burrow also acknowledged the problem after the game. The Bengals quarterback said they needed to get Chase more involved, especially after he touched the ball only twice throughout the opener.

Chase has now offered his own response to the situation. Rather than directing frustration toward his quarterback, the receiver appeared to understand why Burrow did not look his way more often.

“Joe probably didn't like what he saw at the end of the day. I'm not going to be pissed off at him or mad at him.”

That response should ease some of the speculation surrounding Chase’s mood. While his numbers clearly fell below expectations, Chase does not appear interested in creating unnecessary tension after Cincinnati secured the victory.

The Bengals also have plenty of time to correct the issue. Their Week 2 matchup against the Houston Texans gives Burrow and Chase another opportunity to get their connection going.

Ja’Marr Chase Has Just Two Goals for the Bengals This Season

Chase’s priorities this season extend far beyond individual statistics. The Bengals receiver has previously made it clear that he wants Cincinnati to reach the AFC Championship before ultimately winning the Super Bowl.

That competitive mentality makes his Week 1 response particularly notable. Chase could easily have focused on his lack of targets, but instead he accepted the situation and moved forward.

Now, the Bengals need to turn that attitude into production. Getting Chase more involved against Houston could help Cincinnati build on its opening-week victory.

Written by

Joseph Nithin