Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase issued a public apology on Monday for spitting at Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Jalen Ramsey during a recent game. In a statement posted on Instagram, Chase took “full responsibility” for his actions in the game against the Steelers on November 16. The NFL sanctioned Chase with a one-game suspension without pay after concluding that he spat at Ramsey during an altercation in the Week 12 loss.
Chase didn’t mention Ramsey by name, but he did refer to the Steelers franchise.What I did was wrong. The circumstances don’t matter. My passion for the game is no excuse. There is no place in our sport, nor in life, for that level of disrespect.
Ja’Marr Chase
The league confirmed Chase’s suspension after reviewing an appeal filed last week. Both Chase and Ramsey were previously penalized in the game for unsportsmanlike conduct. The head referee, Bill Vinovich, warned both players after the initial altercation. Ramsey was fined $14,191 for his participation in the incident. He was ejected after throwing a punch in response to being spat on. Chase lost more than $500,000 in salary by not playing in the 26-20 loss to the New England Patriots. Chase, a four-time Pro Bowl selection and current All-Pro, has not spoken to the media since a video captured by Cincinnati’s WXIX-TV showed Chase spitting at Ramsey. After the match, Chase denied the action and said he never “opened his mouth to that guy.” Chase refused to speak to reporters during media availability the day after the match. Although he didn’t address it directly, Chase seemed to refer to those comments in his statement.I want to personally apologize to everyone within the Pittsburgh Steelers organization. I let my emotions get the better of me in the moment. I just hope and trust that you know that none of this represents who I am, neither as a competitor, teammate, or person.
Ja’Marr Chase
Since 2021, Chase has accumulated four unsportsmanlike conduct or taunting penalties, the third-most in the league during that period. On Monday, Chase returned to the Bengals’ facilities after serving his suspension. He is scheduled to speak with reporters on Tuesday, which will mark the first time he will be questioned about the incident. Bengals coach Zac Taylor said he briefly saw Chase on Monday as the team prepares for Thursday’s game against the Baltimore Ravens. “We are moving at full speed,” Taylor said.I do not take my position as a role model lightly. As someone who strives to lead with character and authenticity, I should have taken immediate responsibility for what happened.
Ja’Marr Chase
