Ja'Marr Chase enters the 2026 season as the Bengals' clear offensive focal point, coming off back-to-back campaigns with 125 and 127 regular-season receptions despite Joe Burrow missing significant time in 2025. Projections from multiple outlets center on 113–122 catches, driven by his league-leading target share near 30 percent and the expectation of a full 17-game slate with a healthy Burrow under center. Chase's knee hyperextension in late August has him limited in early September practices and questionable for Week 1, though the team views it as minor and not a long-term factor. His consistent volume, even in pass-heavy schemes, anchors trader expectations for another high-reception output.