Ja’Marr Chase apologizes for spitting incident with Steelers’ Jalen Ramsey

Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase has issued a public apology after spitting on Pittsburgh Steelers safety Jalen Ramsey during the teams’ Week 11 matchup. The incident occurred in the midst of a tough loss for the 3–8 Bengals, adding another layer of frustration to a challenging season.

Chase, who initially denied the action, took full responsibility in a statement posted on Instagram. He wrote, “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 life—for that level of disrespect.”

He specifically apologized to the Steelers organization, Ramsey, his own teammates and coaches, as well as Bengals fans, vowing, “I won’t let it happen again.” Chase emphasized his role as a professional and a role model, stating, “I am committed to earning back your respect—not just with words, but with my actions.”

Through 10 games this season, Chase has recorded 79 receptions for 861 yards and 5 touchdowns. His 861 receiving yards currently rank fifth in the NFL.

Having served his suspension during Cincinnati’s Week 12 loss to the New England Patriots, Chase is set to return for the Thanksgiving night game against the Baltimore Ravens. His return coincides with quarterback Joe Burrow’s expected comeback from a turf toe injury, though the offense will be without wideout Tee Higgins, who remains in concussion protocol.

Chase will look to put the incident behind him and focus on helping the Bengals finish a difficult season with pride.