Joe Burrow's Top Target Ja'Marr Chase Ranks as NFL's Best Wide Receiver

Joe Burrow's top target Ja'Marr Chase has been named the top wide receiver in the NFL for the second consecutive season, receiving 70% of first-place votes from coaches, executives, and scouts. Chase's impressive performance earned him the top spot, surpassing other top receivers in the league.

What happened?

Chase received "around 70%" of first-place votes after a second straight first-team All-Pro season. He finished third in the NFL in receptions (125) and fourth in receiving yards (1,412) last season while catching passes from three different quarterbacks after Burrow's two-month absence due to a toe injury.

Why it matters for Joe Burrow

Chase's impressive performance is a testament to the chemistry between him and Burrow. The two have formed a dynamic duo on the field, with Chase being one of the primary targets for Burrow's passes. Chase's ability to break tackles and make big plays has been a key factor in the Bengals' success.

What comes next?

Chase's 6,837 receiving yards are the second-most by any player within his first five seasons in NFL history, trailing only former LSU teammate Justin Jefferson. Since debuting in 2021, Chase's 19 touchdowns of 40-plus yards are the most in the NFL: six more than the next-closest player (Tyreek Hill). And his 29 receptions against press coverage topped the NFL in 2025, highlighting his response when challenged at the line.

Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins did not make the top 10, but was listed among the "also receiving votes" after a six-receiver honorable mention list. Higgins earned his first-ever Pro Bowl nod in 2025 after posting 59 catches for 846 yards and a career-high 11 touchdowns.

Chase was one of just three AFC wide receivers to crack the top 10, joining Houston's Nico Collins (No. 8) and New England's A.J. Brown (No. 9). The ranking is a testament to Chase's hard work and dedication to his craft, and is a reflection of his status as one of the top receivers in the league.

The impact on the Bengals

The Bengals' success is largely due to the chemistry between Chase and Burrow. The two have formed a dynamic duo on the field, with Chase being one of the primary targets for Burrow's passes. Chase's ability to break tackles and make big plays has been a key factor in the Bengals' success.

The future of the Bengals

The Bengals are looking to build on their success in the upcoming season, and Chase's performance will be a key factor in their success. With Chase and Burrow leading the charge, the Bengals are poised to make a deep run in the playoffs.

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