Ja’Marr Chase made his first public statement in nine years after the Cincinnati Bengals made headlines with a trade involving veteran quarterback Joe Flacco. The Bengals forfeited a late-round draft pick to acquire Flacco from the Cleveland Browns.
> _“I appreciate the organization trying to make this work,”_ Chase said, acknowledging the attempt by the organization to salvage the playoff prospects of the team.
**Ja’Marr Chase Endorses Joe Flacco’s Arrival Amid Bengals’ Struggles**
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Ja’Marr Chase and Joe Flacco | Credits: Imagn
Speaking to the media on Thursday ahead of the Bengals’ Week 6 clash against the Green Bay Packers, Chase expressed confidence in the team’s decision to bring Flacco. The trade came after backup quarterback Jake Browning failed to lead the Bengals to a single victory in Burrow’s absence.
Chase, who has 42 receptions for 478 yards and three touchdowns this year, praised Flacco’s professionalism and command during his first practice sessions. “Everybody knows who he is, one of the greatest quarterbacks to ever play. But good to get him out there. We had some good reps today… Pretty smooth. He knows the ins and outs.” Chase [said.](https://x.com/KelseyLConway/status/1976372007668490685?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1976372007668490685%7Ctwgr%5Ef469509e503884557695147369d40f500be04585%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.si.com%2Fnfl%2Fja-marr-chase-makes-first-comments-bengals-trade-joe-flacco)
Chase, when asked how he found out about the trade, said that Tee Higgins had let it slip before coach Zac Taylor confirmed it.. The receiver ended his statement by restating his belief in the organizational competitive commitment. I like the fact that the organization is attempting to make this work.
Flacco will likely begin on Sunday against the Packers so everyone will focus on his connection with Chase. In the meantime, the star receiver’s optimism is a calculated asset indicative of a locker room determined not to eliminate Cincinnati’s postseason aspirations.