Bengals’ Ja’Marr Chase Faces One-Game Suspension for Spitting

Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase has been suspended for one game without pay following an incident where he spat on Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Jalen Ramsey. The announcement came from the NFL on Monday. Chase is currently appealing the decision, and the appeal will be reviewed by either Derrick Brooks, Ramon Foster, or Jordy Nelson, who have been appointed as hearing officers by the league and the NFL Players Association. If the suspension is upheld, Chase will miss the Bengals’ upcoming game against the New England Patriots in Week 12.

The incident occurred during the Bengals’ 34-12 defeat to the Steelers on November 5, 2023. Video footage aired by Cincinnati’s WXIX-TV captured Chase spitting in Ramsey’s direction, leading to Ramsey retaliating with a punch. The league confirmed that Chase’s actions were a violation of sportsmanship principles as outlined in the rule book. Should the suspension proceed, Chase will forfeit his weekly salary of $448,333 and an additional $58,823 he earns for being an active player.

Officials did not notice Chase’s actions during the game, leading to Ramsey’s ejection for the punch alone. Referee Bill Vinovich stated, “We did not see anything that rose to that level at all,” in the post-game report. Chase has denied the allegations, claiming that his interaction with Ramsey was limited to verbal exchanges. “I ain’t ever opened my mouth to that guy,” he stated.

Chase’s actions have drawn criticism, including from Bengals head coach Zac Taylor, who addressed the incident on Monday. “Obviously what happened is crossing the line and we can’t have that,” Taylor said, emphasizing the need for accountability. In contrast, Chase declined to comment further when approached by reporters.

The incident marks the second spitting-related suspension in the NFL this season. Earlier, Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter was suspended for a similar action against Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott in Week 1, which resulted in his ejection during the game.

After the game, Ramsey expressed his frustration, stating, “I don’t give a f— about football after that, respectfully.” He noted that while he enjoys competitive banter on the field, spitting is unacceptable. Ramsey also mentioned a previous altercation involving Chase taking his mouthpiece, which escalated their conflict.

Despite the controversy, Taylor defended Chase, highlighting his leadership role within the team. “I can’t say enough positive things about Ja’Marr,” he remarked. “We’re not all perfect. We’re going to make a mistake here and there, but I stand by Ja’Marr.” The Bengals have struggled this season, winning only one of their last eight games, while the Patriots currently hold a strong record of 9-2 and are on an eight-game winning streak.

Chase’s suspension is a significant moment in his career, being the first time he has faced disciplinary action of this nature. The outcome of his appeal could influence both his future with the team and the Bengals’ performance in the weeks to come.