Cincinnati Bengals star Ja’Marr Chase has issued a lengthy apology after being suspended for one game for spitting at Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Jalen Ramsey during Week 11. The incident, which led to Ramsey’s ejection, resulted in Chase’s one-game suspension by the NFL, along with a fine of $14,491 and the loss of his game check of over $500,000. In an Instagram post, Chase took full responsibility for his actions, apologizing to fans, the Bengals, the Steelers, and the entire NFL. He emphasized that his actions were wrong and that his passion for the game was no excuse for the disrespect shown.
Chase denied spitting at Ramsey after the game, but video evidence contradicted his statement, leading to the suspension. He appealed the decision but was denied. The suspension also affected Chase’s performance in the game, where he recorded only three catches for 30 yards despite being targeted 10 times. The Bengals, however, defeated their AFC North rival in Flacco’s first start at home following his trade from the Cleveland Browns, with Chase contributing 16 catches for 161 yards and a touchdown on 23 targets in that game.
Chase acknowledged the difficult season for the Bengals, noting that his actions were inexcusable given the team’s struggles. He promised to take accountability and set a higher standard for himself moving forward. The Bengals, currently 3-8 after a loss to the New England Patriots, are expected to see key players return on Thanksgiving, including quarterback Joe Burrow, who has been sidelined since Week 2 due to foot surgery.