The Cincinnati Bengals wrapped up their 2025 season with a disappointing 6-11 record, missing the playoffs for a third straight year. The Bengals have failed to reach the Super Bowl since their loss against the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LVI.
Another disappointing season for the Cincinnati Bengals
With the Bengals' performance witnessing a steep decline over the last two years, the franchise has been accused of wasting star quarterback Joe Burrow's prime form. Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase was questioned about the team wasting their primes in an interview with Sports Illustrated last week.
"Everybody has an opinion at the end of the day, and an opinion sometimes just is a right to be heard," Chase replied. "But I can't judge people on what they feel. I know all I can do is control what I can control, and that's my play. And what my play does is only how far I can lead the team to success or not."
Contrary season for Ja'Marr Chase and Joe Burrow
Chase, who topped the league in receptions, receiving yards and touchdowns in 2024, had another good season in 2025 and claimed the Pro Bowl nod for a fifth back-to-back season.
On the other hand, Burrow experienced an injury-riddled 2025 as he played just eight games because of a toe injury. He led the team to a 5-3 record in his limited starts last season.
Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase expects offseason signings
After a disappointing 2025 season, the Bengals are set to make big changes to their roster. The Bengals wide receiver expects the team to boost their defense in the offseason.
"Yeah. I mean, everybody pretty much knows what we need. I've said it out in the media. All I gotta do is sit back and watch. I can't control that, so all I gotta do is control my production.
"I mean, at the end of the day, I'm just stating my opinion on what I think we need. So, you know, I sit back, let the organization do what they do, and I just gotta let my play do the rest."
While Ja'Marr Chase and Joe Burros have been a potent offensive threat, the team has been let down by their defensive performances over the last two seasons.