At the NFL combine two weeks ago, Bengals director of personnel Duke Tobin said the Bengals are prepared to make Chase the highest-paid non-quarterback. With Garret now resetting the market as the highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL, the Bengals will have top Garrett’s contract to back up their words.

The Bengals are in the middle of making difficult rosters moves following a second straight non-playoff season. The team recently released veteran offensive lineman Alex Cappa, saw defensive end Sam Hubbard announce his retirement, and re-signed defensive lineman B.J. Hill and tight end Mike Gesicki to new deals.

Cincinnati is reportedly growing close to a deal with both Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase to keep them in the Queen City long term. Only Burrow would have that kind of impact. It might be the one thing that helps Cincinnati return to the top of the AFC.