Ryan Clark names five cornerbacks he is most excited to matchup with Ja'Marr Chase
Former LSU Tigers defensive back and current ESPN analyst Ryan Clark revealed the top five matchups he’s excited to see for reigning offensive rookie of the year Ja’Marr Chase this season.
The Cincinnati Bengals, coming off of a runner-up performance in the 2021 season, take on the Dallas Cowboys in Week 2 on the road. The matchup presents Chase with a tough challenge, going up against the returning interceptions leader in Trevon Diggs. Although Diggs topped the league in picks, he did not grade out very well in overall coverage, according to PFF. He gave up more than 900 yards, but obviously, Mike McCarthy appreciates his aggressive style of play.
Other top matchups for Chase include two bouts each versus Denzel Ward with the Browns and Marlon Humphrey for the Ravens. He’ll also try to come out victorious versus Marshon Lattimore of the Saints and Xavien Howard with the Dolphins.
Despite a disappointing end to the year, Ja’Marr Chase had a stellar rookie season. The former LSU Tiger national champion now holds the NFL’s rookie receiving record in the postseason. He also has the NFL’s rookie single-game receiving record and the offensive rookie of the year award. He also became the first rookie in NFL history to have 100-plus receiving yard performances in consecutive postseason games.
Ja’Marr Chase finished the regular season with 1,455 yards receiving and 13 touchdowns, both of which led all rookies. He posted just one postseason touchdown, which helped send the Bengals to the Super Bowl in the AFC title game.
He presents a massive challenge for the league’s top defensive backs. In 2021, Chase was held to fewer than four receptions in just six games.
The wide receiver is going into the second year of his rookie contract with the Bengals. He signed a four-year, $30.8 million deal after going No. 5 overall in the 2021 NFL Draft.