Bengals’ Ja’Marr Chase Makes Feelings Clear on Jerry Rice Record Chase

After surpassing Jerry Rice for the most 150-yard receiving games in his first five seasons last week, Cincinnati Bengals star Ja’Marr Chase was thrust into conversations comparing him to the San Francisco 49ers legend.

“It’s cool,” Chase said after a 16-catch, 161-yard performance against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Oct. 16. “[But] I would never know what that is until you all tell me at the end of the day. It’s a cool opportunity hearing it, but I’ve still got a long way to go. That’s the goal, to go get a Super Bowl and a gold [Hall of Fame] jacket.”

While Chase has maintained an ultra-competitive and antagonistic relationship with Justin Jefferson as the two contend as the No. 1 wide receiver in the league, he was blunt when it came to chasing Rice’s records.

Asked if he had thought about breaking any of Rice’s records, Chase said, “If I’m being honest? No.” His comment seemed to be a sign of respect for Rice’s impeccable career as Rice’s records are in a different atmosphere.

ESPN’s Kevin Seifert sized up Jefferson and Chase’s chances of surpassing Rice in the record books. Both the best receiver in their respective playstyle, Jefferson and Chase would have to maintain their current level of play into their mid-30s to come close.

Jefferson, the chain-mover, would need to maintain his 1,500 yards per season average for 10 more seasons to break Rice’s 22,895 career receiving yards record. Meanwhile, Chase, the playmaker, would have to maintain his touchdown rate of 0.74 per game for 12 more seasons to break Rice’s 197 career touchdown mark.

As Jefferson and Chase flirt with potential Hall of Fame careers that could see them on the Mount Rushmore of NFL receivers, Rice remains on Mount Olympus.

For more on the Bengals and NFL, head to Newsweek Sports.

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