Ja'Marr Chase Breaks Silence On Missed Practices & Bengals Offseason Moves Ft. Dexter Lawrence

At his annual youth football camp at Sycamore High School over the weekend, Cincinnati Bengals star wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase addressed one of the biggest storylines of the team's offseason: his absence from voluntary Organized Team Activities (OTAs). With fans and media questioning why he has not participated in recent practices, Chase made it clear that his decision is part of a personal training plan rather than any dispute with the organization.

Today's video is presented by Sharefax Credit Union! Become a member today and visit sharefax.org

Today's video is presented by QC Kinetix! Call (513) 655-3356 or visit qckinetix.com to learn more

Today's video is presented by 78 Cigars! Get your box today: anthonymunoz.com/anthony-munoz-78-cigars

Speaking to reporters at the camp, Chase said his focus has been on preparing his body for the long NFL season ahead. "Right now, I'm just trying to get in shape," Chase explained, adding that he expects to return to the team soon. He stressed that the time away should not be viewed as a lack of commitment, but rather as a way to give his body additional recovery after another demanding season.

Chase also pushed back against any suggestion that he is doing something inappropriate by skipping the voluntary sessions. "I'm not doing anything wrong," he said. "I make sure I talk back with the team and give them information." According to Chase, he has remained in communication with coaches and teammates throughout the offseason and continues to stay informed on the team's plans.

His comments appear to support reports that the absence is unrelated to contract issues. Unlike his 2024 contract-related holdout, this situation is viewed as a veteran player following an individualized offseason program. Bengals coaches have not publicly expressed concern, and Chase indicated that both coaches and teammates can vouch for the work he has been doing away from team facilities.

For now, Chase's message was straightforward: he is focused on conditioning, maintaining communication with the organization, and preparing to rejoin the Bengals when the time is right.