Not Doing Anything Wrong: Ja’Marr Chase Makes Feelings Clear on Missing Voluntary Work
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja'marr Chase (1) gets to his feet after catching a go-ahead touchdown in the fourth quarter of the NFL Week 18 game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Cleveland Browns at Paycor Stadium in Downtown Cincinnati on Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026. The Browns kicked a last second field goal to win 20-18.
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja'marr Chase (1) gets to his feet after catching a go-ahead touchdown in the fourth quarter of the NFL Week 18 game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Cleveland Browns at Paycor Stadium in Downtown Cincinnati on Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026. The Browns kicked a last second field goal to win 20-18.
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase has drawn some attention this offseason because of his absence from voluntary team workouts. The truth is, Chase has been training away from the facility while continuing to communicate regularly with the organization.
NFL sportscaster Dan Hoard recently talked to Chase at a football camp and got to hear his side.
“It’s just giving my body a rest at the end of the day,” Chase said. “I work very hard. My coaches can vouch for me and my teammates can vouch for me, so at the end of the day, I’m not doing anything wrong. I talk to the team and give them my information so I do a good job of that.”
Feb 2, 2026; San Francisco, CA, USA; Cincinnati Bengals receiver Ja'Marr Chase (1) during AFC practice at the NFL Flag Fieldhouse at Moscone Center South Building. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Feb 2, 2026; San Francisco, CA, USA; Cincinnati Bengals receiver Ja'Marr Chase (1) during AFC practice at the NFL Flag Fieldhouse at Moscone Center South Building. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
While Chase is not present for the voluntary workouts, he did express that he is excited to play again next season.
"I can't wait to get back, and obviously I'm fixing to be back soon," Chase said.
Earlier this month, Bengals insider Charlie Clifford had reported on a possible timeline for Chase's return to the team.
"Based on multiple conversations this week, this appears to be a veteran star transitioning to a new offseason plan. 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 WLWT.
That being said, Chase is also excited about a new player who joined their team this offseason.
Chase Reacts To The Bengals' Big Offseason Move
The Bengals made one of the biggest moves this offseason as they traded the 10th overall pick for star defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence. Chase reacted to the move on Saturday during his annual Pro camp.
"Honestly, it was very impactful for one and two, it was very surprising," said Chase. "I'm glad we got a chance to make a big impact on the defensive side."
He added, "I think he's going to come in and play a big role. Can't wait to show the critics and show what we can do. That's what it's all about."
The Bengals had another disappointing season last year as they missed the playoffs yet again. With such a big move to help a weak defense and a fully fit Joe Burrow, the Bengals could finally make the playoffs after missing it for 3 consecutive years.
How do you think Chase will perform this season? Let us know in the comments!
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Written by
Dhruv Vishnu Nair
Edited by
Shubhi Rathore