The NFL suspended Cincinnati wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase for one game on Monday due to an act of unsportsmanlike conduct in the Bengals’ most recent loss.
Chase spat on Jalen Ramsey while jawing with the Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback in the fourth quarter of a 34-12 defeat on Sunday.
The All-Pro pass catcher is set to miss Cincinnati’s home matchup with the New England Patriots next Sunday. Barring a successful appeal, Chase can return to the active roster ahead of a Thursday night visit to the Baltimore Ravens on Nov. 27.
Video footage disproved Chase’s postgame claim that he didn’t spit on Ramsey, a three-time All-Pro who was traded to Pittsburgh in the offseason. Ramsey was ejected for punching Chase in response.
Chase caught a league-high 79 passes for 861 yards and five touchdowns in Cincinnati’s first 10 games of the season. Despite his production, the Bengals (3-7) have lost three straight games and dropped seven of their last eight while sliding to 32nd in the league in points and yards allowed.
The suspension without pay will cost Chase more than $500,000, per ESPN. His weekly paycheck is $448,333, and he receives a $58,823 bonus for each game that he is active.
If Chase opts to appeal, his case would be heard and ruled upon by one of three hearing officers — Derrick Brooks, Ramon Foster or Jordy Nelson — jointly appointed by the league and the NFLPA.
As the Minnesota Vikings push through a challenging 2025 season, J.J. McCarthy is standing tall, taking full responsibility for the ups and downs, and vowing that the best is yet to come. Despite facing setbacks and growing pains, McCarthy remains confident in the team’s ability to bounce back, lead by his unwavering belief in the squad’s potential. In an inspiring message to Vikings fans, McCarthy promised that the team will overcome the hurdles and reach the top, where they belong.
“We’ve faced setbacks, but I know how to bounce back. Every challenge is an opportunity, and I’m ready to lead this team to where we know we belong — at the top,”
McCarthy said, radiating confidence as he reflected on the season’s ups and downs.
The Vikings have had their share of struggles in 2025, with McCarthy himself experiencing the highs and lows of his first season as the starter. Yet despite the occasional misstep, McCarthy’s leadership on and off the field has been a driving force for the team.
McCarthy’s words reflect a mindset that has been essential to his growth and leadership in Minnesota. After all, his journey to becoming the Vikings’ starting quarterback was never linear. From entering the season with questions about his readiness to now facing the responsibility of leading a talented team, McCarthy’s ability to maintain a positive outlook is something the entire roster looks to.
“I know we’ve been through tough moments, but I’m not worried about the past,” McCarthy added. “What matters is how we respond. We’ve got a talented group here, and I believe in every guy in that locker room. We know what we’re capable of, and it’s all about executing together.”
For McCarthy, overcoming setbacks isn’t just about pushing through adversity but about using those moments to fuel improvement. He’s aware that the Vikings are still learning how to play at a championship level, but he’s confident that they have the pieces in place to get there.
McCarthy’s optimism isn’t just empty words — it’s backed by his preparation and work ethic. The quarterback has spent countless hours studying film, improving his timing with his receivers, and leading by example. His chemistry with
But McCarthy isn’t just focused on the offensive side of the ball. He’s also shown respect for the defensive unit led by
McCarthy’s leadership has been critical to keeping the Vikings motivated through tough times. He’s not the kind of player who shies away from taking responsibility, and he’s made it clear that accountability will be a cornerstone of the team’s growth. For McCarthy, this season is not just about individual success; it’s about getting the whole team to a level where they can consistently compete for championships.
“We’ve got everything we need to be great,” McCarthy said. “It’s about trusting the process and believing in each other. We know we can make a playoff push, and we’ll do whatever it takes to get there. We’ve just got to take it one game at a time.”
McCarthy’s confidence is contagious. His promise to lead the Vikings to the top is more than just words — it’s a declaration that the team has what it takes to rise above the setbacks and push forward toward their ultimate goal: winning a championship.
As the Vikings enter the second half of the season, McCarthy’s leadership will continue to be a guiding light. His growth as a player and leader will be essential in helping the Vikings navigate the challenges that lie ahead. The road to success won’t be easy, but with McCarthy at the helm, the Vikings are ready to prove that they have what it takes to reach the top.
“We’re going to overcome these setbacks and reach the top where we belong,” McCarthy concluded. “This is just the beginning — the best is yet to come.”