Move the Sticks: Week 14 Preview, Should Bengals Trade Ja’Marr Chase?
The NFL’s Week 14 slate is upon us, and with it comes a plethora of intriguing storylines and potential roster moves. In this edition of “Move the Sticks,” we’ll preview the upcoming week’s action, including a deep dive into the Cincinnati Bengals’ situation and whether or not they should consider trading star wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase.
Week 14 Preview: Key Matchups and Predictions
Buffalo Bills (10-3) at New York Jets (7-5): The Bills are looking to solidify their hold on the AFC East, while the Jets are aiming to continue their playoff push. Buffalo’s high-powered offense led by quarterback Josh Allen will face a tough test against a Jets defense that ranks 10th in the NFL in points allowed. Prediction: Bills win 27-17.
Kansas City Chiefs (9-3) at Denver Broncos (3-9): The Chiefs are looking to bounce back from a disappointing loss to the Bengals, while the Broncos are searching for their first win since Week 5. Kansas City’s offense will be a heavy favorite against a struggling Denver defense. Prediction: Chiefs win 38-13.
Philadelphia Eagles (11-1) at New York Giants (7-5): The Eagles are looking to extend their NFL-best record, while the Giants are aiming to keep pace in the NFC East. Philadelphia’s dominant defense will be tested by a Giants offense that has been inconsistent this season. Prediction: Eagles win 24-14.
Should the Bengals Trade Ja’Marr Chase?
The Cincinnati Bengals are facing a difficult decision regarding the future of wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase. The 22-year-old star is one of the most talented pass-catchers in the NFL, but he is also entering the final year of his rookie contract. The Bengals have the option of trading Chase before the March 7 deadline to avoid losing him in free agency next year.
There are several factors to consider in this decision. On one hand, Chase is a game-changing talent who has been a major contributor to the Bengals’ success in recent years. He was named Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2021 and has already surpassed 1,000 receiving yards in each of his first two seasons. Trading him would undoubtedly weaken Cincinnati’s offense.
On the other hand, the Bengals are facing a financial crunch. Chase is set to earn $10.7 million in the final year of his contract, and the team has several other key players who need to be paid. Trading Chase could free up significant cap space, allowing the Bengals to address other needs on their roster.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to trade Chase will depend on a number of factors, including the team’s salary cap situation, the availability of other receivers, and the Bengals’ long-term goals. However, it is clear that this is a difficult decision with no easy answers.
Other News and Notes
Deshaun Watson returns: Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson will make his season debut in Week 14 against the Houston Texans. Watson was suspended for the first 11 games of the season for violating the NFL’s personal conduct policy.
Aaron Rodgers injured: Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers suffered a rib injury in Week 13 and is questionable for Week 14. If Rodgers is unable to play, Jordan Love will start in his place.
Playoff picture takes shape: With just five weeks remaining in the regular season, the playoff picture is starting to take shape. The Buffalo Bills, Kansas City Chiefs, and Philadelphia Eagles are all in control of their respective divisions. The Cincinnati Bengals, New York Jets, and Miami Dolphins are all in the mix for AFC Wild Card spots, while the Minnesota Vikings, New York Giants, and Washington Commanders are in contention for NFC Wild Card spots.
Stay tuned to “Move the Sticks” for all the latest NFL news, analysis, and predictions as we head into the final stretch of the regular season.