Ja’Marr Chase was given a one-game suspension for spitting on Jalen Ramsey during an NFL clash earlier this month
Ja’Marr Chase served a suspension for spitting on an opponentopen image in gallery
Ja’Marr Chase served a suspension for spitting on an opponent (AP)
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Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase has issued an apology for spitting on Jalen Ramsey during the fourth quarter of the team's loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers on 16 November, an incident that led to his suspension from Sunday's game.
Chase's statement of apology, posted on social media, was addressed to his team, the Bengals and Steelers organisations, and the wider NFL community. Notably, the star receiver did not mention Ramsey by name in his public address.
"Please know I am speaking from my heart when I say I take full responsibility for my actions during last Sunday’s game at Pittsburgh," Chase stated.
"What I did was wrong. The circumstances don’t matter. My passion for the game is no excuse. There’s zero place in our sport or in life for that level of disrespect.
“I want to personally apologise to everyone within the Pittsburgh Steelers organisation. I let my emotions in the moment get the better of me."
He further added: "This has been a tough season with some incredibly hard losses. We’ve all been frustrated. But instead of stepping up with calm, class and leadership, I let you down. My having to sit out yesterday’s game makes my actions even more inexcusable."
Chase did not directly address Ramsey in his apologyopen image in gallery
Chase did not directly address Ramsey in his apology (AP)
The suspension resulted in a significant financial penalty for Chase, who was docked at least $448,333.33 in base salary, according to the NFL Players Association database.
His absence was felt as Cincinnati went on to lose 26-20 to New England on Sunday, with the team also missing Tee Higgins, who suffered a concussion with 4:50 remaining.
Higgins has since been ruled out for Thursday night's game at Baltimore. The Bengals, now holding a 3-8 record, have endured a difficult season, dropping eight of their last nine games.
However, there is anticipation for the return of quarterback Joe Burrow, who is expected back from a turf toe injury that required surgery and has sidelined him for nine games.
Despite the recent controversy, Chase remains a pivotal player, ranking fourth in the league with 79 receptions and fifth in receiving yards with 861.
He led the NFL in catches, receiving yards, and touchdown catches last season.