CINCINNATI — The months leading up to this season were anything but normal and peaceful for Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase.
Chase did not participate in any training camp practices as he tried to get a contract extension that never materialized. So when he caught his first touchdown of the season last Monday in a loss to the Washington Commanders, Chase said it provided a sense of relief.
And he's back to enjoying the game. «All this BS that was going on this offseason and prior to the season, I'm just happy that it's over with,» Chase said on Thursday. «I'm finally playing ball and having fun with the guys.
That's what matters most for me.» Chase said he is feeling «great» despite dealing with a shoulder injury. He was estimated to have been a limited participant Wednesday if the team had practiced instead of holding a walkthrough.