The Cincinnati Bengals star receiver has returned from a one-game suspension that came after he spit on Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback, Jalen Ramsey, in Week 11. Chase and Ramsey were involved in an on-field altercation, which saw the Steelers’ defender earn an ejection from the contest.
While Chase wasn’t initially punished, he received a suspension from the league just one day later.
Now as the Bengals get ready to play on a short week, Chase took to social media and sent a message to his team, fans, the Bengals organization, the Steelers organization and the NFL community.
Here is his apology, in its entirety:
‘Please know I am speaking from my heart when I say I take full responsibility for my actions during last Sunday’s game at Pittsburgh.
What I did was wrong. The circumstances don’t matter. My passion for the game is no excuse. There’s zero place in our sport – or in life – for that level of disrespect.
I want to personally apologize to everyone within the Pittsburgh Steelers organization. I let my emotions in the moment get the better of me. I can only hope and trust you know none of it represents who I am – not as a competitor, teammate, or person.
I also want to apologize to my coaches, teammates, and organization for not meeting my own standards as a leader of this team.
This has been a tough season with some incredibly hard losses. We’ve all been frustrated. But instead of stepping up with calm, class, and leadership, I let you down. My having to sit out yesterday’s game makes my actions even more inexcusable. I won’t let it happen again.
Finally, I want to apologize to my fans.
I do not take anyone who wears my jersey for granted. 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 accountability for what happened.
I am committed to earning back your respect – not just with words, but with my actions, day after day, on and off the field.
I promise to keep learning from this and to set a higher standard for myself moving forward.
With respect,
Ja’Marr Chase’
The Bengals will now look to turn the page as they try to turn their season around on Thanksgiving against the Baltimore Ravens.
Joe Burrow is set to make his return and start at quarterback and now he’ll get Chase back in the fold too.