It hasn't been a rosy preseason for the Cincinnati Bengals rookie Ja'Marr Chase. Selected fifth overall in the 2021 NFL Draft by the Bengals, Chase has yet to impress Cincy fans, many of whom believe that the team should have just selected a piece for Joe Burrow's protection than a shiny new target downfield for the quarterback. Chase's struggles on the field, especially his ball security, have been unfairly amplified with quick reactions on social media, but for Burrow and head coach Zac Taylor, they don't see anything to be worried about — yet.
Joe Burrow on Ja'Marr Chase dropping his one target:
"I'm not worried about it. I know the kind of guy and player Ja'Marr (Chase) is."
Said he's confident Ja'Marr will be ready to go week one. #Bengals @fox19
— Jeremy Rauch (@FOX19Jeremy) August 29, 2021
Zac Taylor shrugging off any concerns about Ja'Marr Chase's drops in the last two preseason games. Said those who have been at practice (aka us) have seen some great plays from him.
— Ben Baby (@Ben_Baby) August 29, 2021
Back in Week 2 of the 2021 NFL preseason, Chase failed to secure any of the three targets that came his way. By the end of the game, many were so quick to declare the former LSU Tigers star a bust. Then in Week 3 against the Miami Dolphins, Chase was not able to pull down the only look he got in the entire game. Being a high pick, it's not difficult for Chase to attract criticisms over the slightest of missteps on the field, let alone going 0-for-3 in a game. But careers are not made in the preseason. What's important for Chase is that he would show why the Bengals were not wrong in taking him in the draft once the regular season kicks in.
Until then, don't call him the next John Ross.