Ja’Marr Chase holdout: How Cincinnati Bengals can replace star amid absence

Kyle Smith

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Ja’Marr Chase holdout: How Cincinnati Bengals can replace star amid absence image

Another day and another missed practice for Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase.

The former LSU standout is entering his fourth season in the NFL and has two more years left on his deal.

However, the superstar wide receiver is the last one waiting on a potential deal from the offseason after players like CeeDee Lamb, Brandon Aiyuk, Justin Jefferson and Amon-Ra St. Brown all broke the bank.

Given that Chase hasn't practiced yet this week leading up to the opener against the New England Patriots, Ari Meirov of The 33rd Team believes some trouble could be looming.

“I could see a scenario where he basically threatens the teams and says, listen, if we don’t get a deal done, I’m not playing the first two weeks," Meirov said on his podcast.

While it’s still incredibly likely that Chase suits up for Cincinnati on Sunday, they may have to look at some other options to replace his snaps. 

Ja'Marr Chase replacement options

Andrei Iosivas 

The former Princeton standout has received rave reviews heading into his second season. Iosivas, a former track star, caught 16 of his 25 targets for 116 yards and four touchdowns during his rookie campaign and saw more of the field than many thought possible for a sixth-round pick.

However, he looks to be far more involved in the Bengals offense heading into 2024 following the departure of Tyler Boyd. 

Add in the fact that Chase may miss multiple weeks due to his contract dispute, and Iosivas should easily be in line to be WR2 behind Tee Higgins. Joe Burrow and the coaching staff have gained trust in Iosivas this offseason, and Iosivas was named by the Athletic’s Paul Dehner as a player where “expectations are soaring for a year 2 breakout.”

Trenton Irwin

The always-reliable Irwin could also be next in line to earn extra snaps if Chase’s holdout continues. Irwin, a five-year veteran, has been a consistent target for Burrow when either Chase or Higgins has been out due to injuries.

While not the most athletic, Irwin has reliable hands and is always where he’s supposed to be. While Iosivas can add more athleticism at the position, Irwin’s savviness could earn him the WR2 role with Chase out. 

Jermaine Burton

The far less likely option is Burton, a third-round pick. A former Alabama and Georgia standout, fell to the third round in the 2024 draft after allegations of immaturity tanked his draft stock. The Bengals snagged Burton and believed they drafted a first-round talent.

Throughout the preseason, Burton was relegated to the third and fourth-string offenses. But when his number was called, Burton delivered.

He finished the preseason with eight receptions, 157 yards, and two impressive touchdowns. While the competition was lacking, Burton’s talent clearly shined and elevated the hopes of Bengals’ fans and coaches alike. 

If Burton is to earn snaps in Chase’s absence or even sneak into the active game-day roster, he’ll have to prove to the coaching staff that his maturity has taken a turn and that he has a solid understanding of the playbook.

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Kyle Smith

Kyle Smith Photo

Kyle Smith joined The Sporting News as a freelance writer in 2024, and covers the Cincinnati Bengals and the NFL. Kyle was born and raised in Louisville, Kentucky, and is a graduate of Western Kentucky University. He is an avid fan of the NFL Draft and all things football. Kyle has previously had stops at Pro Football Network, Heavy Sports, and TWSN. Follow him on X @Kyle_Smith1087.