NFL fans expected the league to punish Ja’Marr Chase of the Cincinnati Bengals after he spat on Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Jalen Ramsey during their Week 11 game, but no one was sure how severe the punishment would be. The league has announced its decision, and it could hurt the Bengals in Week 12.
ESPN insider Adam Schefter revealed that the Chase will miss one game due to a suspension.
“NFL suspended Bengals WR Ja’Marr Chase for spitting at Steelers DB Jalen Ramsey. Chase denied spitting at Ramsey, but the league determined the video evidence was sufficient to warrant a suspension,” Schefter wrote on X.
NFL suspended Bengals WR Ja’Marr Chase for spitting at Steelers DB Jalen Ramsey. Chase denied spitting at Ramsey, but the league determined the video evidence was sufficient to warrant a suspension. pic.twitter.com/ogVs66Xjeh
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 17, 2025
Chase is appealing the suspension, and the league will relay the matter to special officers specifically in charge of situations like this. If they rule the suspension is fair, Chase will sit out the Bengals’ game against the New England Patriots. It would also cost him a hefty paycheck.
Chase and Ramsey were not happy with one another throughout the game, and they butted heads, leading to each of them receiving an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty. The spit happened later, drawing a punch from Ramsey. The cornerback was ejected, but Chase was not.
Bengals head coach Zac Taylor was asked about the incident after the game and said Chase’s actions were “crossing the line.” He predicted that Chase would take responsibility, but the player is trying to avoid the league’s punishment.
He may find success with his appeal, but there is a very good chance that the Bengals will be without arguably their best player when taking on one of the toughest teams in the NFL.
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