Ja'Marr Chase Suspension Upheld: Bengals Adjust Game Plans

Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase will serve a one-game suspension for spitting on Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Jalen Ramsey, as confirmed by the NFL after Chase's appeal was denied. The incident occurred during a game on November 16, 2025, where the Bengals lost 34-12.

Video evidence emerged showing Chase spitting on Ramsey's jersey, which led to Ramsey retaliating by punching Chase and ultimately being ejected from the game. Chase's appeal, argued by the hearing officer Jordy Nelson, was based on the claim that if he intended to spit on Ramsey, he would have aimed for his face rather than his jersey or the ground.

This defense did not sway the arbitrator, resulting in the suspension being upheld, making Chase the first NFL player to receive a suspension for spitting, according to Deadspin. Chase's absence comes at a critical time for the Bengals, who now stand at 3-7, as they prepare to face the 9-2 New England Patriots this Sunday.

His suspension not only sidelines one of the league's top receivers but also costs him over $507,000, including his game check and a roster bonus, as reported by Cincy Jungle. Chase has been a key player for the Bengals, leading the NFL with 79 receptions this season and boasting significant receiving statistics over his career.

His leadership role as team captain adds another layer of complexity to this situation, as teammates and coaches look to adjust without him. The Bengals must now rethink their offensive strategy against a strong Patriots defense, relying on other receivers such as Tee Higgins to step up in Chase's absence.

Additionally, with the Bengals' playoff hopes dwindling, this suspension represents yet another challenge for a team struggling to find its footing this season. The Bengals will need to rally together in this critical week as they aim to mitigate the impact of losing one of their star players.

Chase is eligible to return in Week 13 against the Baltimore Ravens, but for now, the Bengals must adapt quickly without his dynamic presence on the field.