Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase has been suspended one game without pay. This decision follows the recent events in which he spit on Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Jalen Ramsey during a game earlier this week. The scene unfolded during Cincinnati’s 34-12 defeat at the hands of the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday—a loss that led to Ramsey’s violent response.
The incident occurred when Chase, who was in the middle of a brawl with Ramsey throughout the game, jabbed at Ramsey while allegedly spitting at him. Dashcam video from WXIX-TV recorded Chase’s every action in crystal clear detail, which provoked Ramsey to retaliate by throwing a punch. This retaliatory turn completely undermined the code of sportsmanship. As a result, both players were hit with offsetting unsportsmanlike conduct penalties earlier in the game.
Chase’s suspension is surprising in that it is the first of his career. The young star, who was voted team captain for this season, looked primed for a bounce-back campaign. His teammates and coaches have lauded him for his poise and composure throughout an up and down rookie year for the Bengals.
Bengals head coach Zac Taylor expressed his frustration over the incident. He vigorously defended Chase’s character and leadership on the team.
“Obviously what happened is crossing the line, and we can’t have that,” said Taylor. “I know he’ll own up to that.”
Should the suspension stick, Chase will be out for the Bengals’ important Week 12 game against the New England Patriots. During the appeal process, appeals will be decided by a review by former NFL players Derrick Brooks, Ramon Foster, or Jordy Nelson.
Referee Bill Vinovich’s post-game comments provide insight into the thinking. Specifically, he applied that the players or team staff did not do anything that would merit such a drastic penalty throughout their shadows of the game.
Chase’s history of similar behavior leads us to question what exactly he was doing on the field. In 2022, he’d found himself in the middle of a more controversial moment when he ripped Steelers safety Minkah Fitzpatrick’s mouthguard. This recent suspension marks the second instance this season where a player has faced disciplinary actions for spitting on an opponent.
Ramsey, clearly shaken by the incident, reflected on the fight.
“I don’t give a f
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