Ja’Marr Chase’s representatives celebrated their big night against the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday night football.

Caitlin Aoki, the agent of the Cincinnati Bengals’ star wide receiver, wrote that Chase “continues to make my job easier” in a post on X.

Chase and the Bengals were unable agree to a long-term contract extension before the start of the regular season.

the receiver celebrated in throughout training camp, appearing at the Cincinnati facility without participating in practice while awaiting a possible extension.

ESPN Jeremy Fowler reported that Chase and the Bengals “were close to a deal” before Week 1 of the regular season, but the team’s offer fell short of their desire to reset the wide receiver market. According to Fowler, people “around the league” expected Cincinnati to pay Chase “somewhere between” the contracts given to CeeDee Lamb of the Dallas Cowboys and Justin Jefferson of the Minnesota Vikings.

Jefferson and Lamb own the two highest contracts among all receivers in terms of average value, playing on deals worth $35 million and $34 million per year respectively (via Spotrac).

As for Chase, the No. 5 overall pick in the 2021 NFL draft is still up for discussion. rookie deal That keeps him under contract through 2025, giving both sides another chance to reach a deal next offseason.

However, Chase’s argument will likely increase after his 2024 campaign. Entering Thursday’s action, he has already recorded 55 receptions for 717 yards and seven touchdowns.

With teammate Tee Higgins ready to enter unrestricted free agency In 2025, the Bengals will likely work harder to secure a long-term deal with Chase so as not to risk losing multiple top receivers.

After his stellar performance against the Ravens, it should be easier for Chase’s representation to negotiate a sizable extension for the receiver.