The Cincinnati Bengals have impressed to begin the 2026 NFL season, winning their first two games. They will enter Week 3’s matchup with the Pittsburgh Steelers looking to extend their early lead in the division.
Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase turned it around during Week 2’s win over the Houston Texans. In Week 1, Burrow only targeted Chase four times and he ended up with just two receptions and 12 yards despite Cincinnati scoring 33 points.
That was not the case this past Sunday. Burrow targeted Chase nine times and he caught seven passes for 75 yards while also adding two touchdowns in the victory.
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Unfortunately for Chase, his actions after one of those scores have resulted in punishment from the NFL.
Chase spoke with reporters after Cincinnati’s practice Thursday and revealed that the NFL has decided to fine him for his People’s Elbow celebration, which he did with teammate Tee Higgins as an homage to WWE legend Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.
The NFL decided that was enough to fine both him and Higgins for unsportsmanlike conduct. Chase revealed he did not understand the decision and said it was just a wrestling move. He also added that he would appeal the fine with the NFLPA to fight for his money, via Mike Petraglia of CLNS Media.
For Chase, the punishment would likely be his first unsportsmanlike conduct offense of the year, meaning the fine was likely $14,926, per the NFL fines and appeals schedule.
However, there is a chance the NFL reviews it and changes their mind on the punishment ahead of Sunday’s matchup with Pittsburgh.
