Ja’Marr Chase puts pressure on Joe Burrow while calling out Tee Higgins’ Pro Bowl snub

The Cincinnati Bengals' chances of making the playoffs are over, thus the last few weeks of the 2025 NFL season are all about pride, milestones, and unfinished business. Ja'Marr Chase is motivated by two things: not scoring in the end zone and the public support for his long-time teammate.

Speaking to reporters ahead of Cincinnati’s Week 17 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals, Chase admitted there is one clear objective left on his checklist.

“I think my biggest thing is just to score another touchdown,” Chase said. “I feel like I’ve been overdue since Week 7.”



It was a simple statement, but one that subtly shifted the spotlight toward quarterback Joe Burrow. With Burrow having missed significant time this season due to injury, the Bengals’ offensive rhythm, especially in the red zone, has been inconsistent. Chase, despite ranking among the league leaders in receptions and receiving yards, has only found the end zone five times in 2025, his lowest total since entering the league.

Statistically, Chase’s season still stacks up with the NFL’s elite. He has crossed the 1,200-yard mark and remains a nightmare for opposing secondaries. Yet touchdowns have been harder to come by, creating an unusual contrast in an otherwise productive year.



The Bengals’ offense hasn’t collapsed entirely. Cincinnati ranks among the league’s top teams in total touchdowns, but the distribution has shifted. That shift has benefited one player in particular, Tee Higgins.

Ja’Marr Chase speaks out on Tee Higgins’ Pro Bowl omission

Chase’s most pointed message this week didn’t come at the podium. Instead, it arrived on social media, shortly after Pro Bowl rosters were announced.

“Why tee ain’t first team pro bowl ��,” Chase posted, openly questioning Higgins’ omission from the initial AFC roster.



While Chase earned his fifth straight Pro Bowl selection, Higgins was listed only as a second alternate - despite leading the AFC in receiving touchdowns and delivering consistently in high-leverage moments.

The snub struck a nerve within Bengals circles. Higgins has been a steady presence in Cincinnati for six seasons and recently secured a long-term contract extension, yet the individual recognition continues to elude him.

As the Cincinnati Bengals prepare to close out a disappointing season, Chase’s comments reflect a broader mindset inside the locker room. There may be no playoff chase left, but there are standards to uphold - and statements still to be made.

In Cincinnati, the season may be winding down - but the pressure hasn’t gone anywhere.
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