Bengals receiver Ja’Marr Chase apologized for his actions against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 11 that led to a one-game suspension, but he didn’t mention Steelers defensive back Jalen Ramsey by name in the apology.
The apology from Chase’s Instagram reads as follows:
To my team, fans, the Bengals organization, the Steelers organization, and the NFL community:
Please know I am speaking from my heart when I say I take full responsibility for my actions during last Sunday’s game at Pittsburgh.
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 in life – for that level of disrespect.
I want to personally apologize to everyone within the Pittsburgh Steelers organization. I let my emotions in the moment get the better of me. I can only hope and trust you know none of it represents who I am – not as a competitor, teammate or person.
I also want to apologize to my coaches, teammates and organization for not meeting my own standards as a leader of this team.
This has been a tough season with some incredibly hard losses. We’ve all been frustrated. But instead of stepping up with calm, class and leadership, I let you down. My having to sit out yesterday’s game makes my actions even more inexcusable. I won’t let it happen again.
Finally, I want to apologize to my fans.
I do not take anyone who wears my jersey for granted. I do not take my position as a role model lightly. As someone who strives to lead with character and authenticity, I should have taken immediate accountability for what happened.
I am committed to earning back your respect – not just with words, but with my actions, day after day, on and off the field.
I promise to keep learning from this and to set a higher standard for myself moving forward.
With respect,
Ja’Marr Chase
Chase worked out at UC’s new $134-million, 210,000-square-foot indoor practice facility and athletics performance center during his suspension.
Chase missed his sixth career game over five seasons with the Bengals. He’s set to return to action Thanksgiving night against the Ravens in Baltimore.
This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Ja’Marr Chase Instagram apology doesn’t mention Jalen Ramsey by name
Reporting by Dave Clark, Cincinnati Enquirer / Cincinnati Enquirer
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
