Cincinnati Bengals star wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase has been visibly missing from the team's Organized Team Activities (OTAs). Initially, his absence caused some concern among fans, worried there might be trouble behind the scenes, but reports have quickly cleared the air. 

Both Chase and the team have confirmed that his absence is simply a personal choice rather than a sign of any problems. At his annual youth football camp, Chase openly addressed the situation. Reporter Jaron May of WLWT reported this on X.

“Ja'Marr Chase held his annual youth camp today. Uno on his preference for personal work instead of the team's voluntary practices, and his take on the offseason moves: ‘I'm not doing anything wrong. I make sure I talk back with the team and give them information.” May wrote.

This decision is entirely based on a new offseason training program. The program allows the veteran star to manage his physical workload and train on his own. The Bengals' front office is completely on board with this plan, viewing it as a standard transition for a veteran player.

Unlike in past years, where missing workouts meant a player was fighting for a new contract, Chase is in a very secure position. He already signed a four-year, $161 million, long-term contract extension with the Bengals in 2025. This eliminates any potential contract-related friction.

It makes sense that the Bengals trust him. Especially after the incredible 2025 season he had. Last year, Chase dominated on the field, catching 125 passes for 1,412 yards and scoring eight touchdowns.

He is one of the best players in the league, and he will be completely ready to go when the real games start. 

Analyst Perspective on Chase's OTA Absences

Ja'Marr Chase has already made it clear that the Bengals are fully aware of his private workouts. He isn't the only one skipping voluntary spring practices, either.

His star teammate, wide receiver Tee Higgins, is also sitting out for now. According to Bengals insider Charlie Clifford, this has simply become the new normal for the NFL's elite players. 

He even gave a timeline for when fans can expect Chase to rejoin his teammates: 

“Based on multiple conversations this week, this appears to be a veteran star transitioning to a new offseason plan, and it wouldn’t be a surprise if Ja’Marr Chase continues to work on his own until Cincinnati’s mandatory three-day minicamp (June 16-June 18),” Clifford reported.

For over 15 years, many of the NFL's biggest stars, including quarterbacks, wide receivers, and defensive linemen, have chosen to train on their own.

For example, former All-Pro defensive lineman Ndamukong Suh did this early in his career. More recently, superstar quarterback Lamar Jackson even gave up bonus money. He did this so he could train away from the team facility.

Elite players often prioritize specific workouts to ensure peak performance for the regular season.

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Written by

Aaindri Thakuri

Edited by

Rudra Dubey