The Cincinnati Bengals' breakout campaign featured several players bursting on the scene, including top rookie wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase. Teaming up with his college teammate, Joe Burrow, allowed Chase to torch NFL defenses like no rookie wideout has ever done. Their connection carried the Bengals all the way to the franchise's first Super Bowl in decades.

Stars around the NFL have taken notice of Chase. Even NBA stars like Chris Paul have taken note of the Bengals' young Pro Bowler. He ranked toward the top of the league in receiving yards, receiving touchdowns and yards per target across the whole league while setting several records along the way.

Kansas City Chiefs star wide receiver Tyreek Hill definitively said that Chase's season was undoubtedly the best ever from a rookie wide receiver:

The title of the best season by a rookie wide receiver is between Chase and Randy Moss, who both took home the Offense Rookie of the Year Award. The endorsement from Hill, an All-Pro wideout, is a big one.

Moving forward, Chase will be considered one of the best at his position. He had a lot to prove his rookie season, as concerns about Burrow's health dominated discussions around who the Bengals should have picked in the 2021 draft. They opted for Chase over an offensive lineman, and the wideout made their investment look brilliant after some preseason struggles.

The loss in Super Bowl 56 stings, but it was a great sign of things to come in Cincinnati. Their offense is littered with playmakers, most of whom are young. With the right tweaks, the Bengals can rule the AFC North for years to come and compete for even more championships.