The Cincinnati Bengals selected LSU wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase with the fifth overall pick, reuniting him with his former college quarterback Joe Burrow. Here are the key expectations for Chase's rookie NFL season:

Day 1 Starter Impact

• Expected to start immediately despite opting out of 2020 season
• NFL-ready with elite size, speed, and football IQ
• Existing chemistry with QB Joe Burrow from LSU
• Will line up outside opposite Tee Higgins, with Tyler Boyd in slot

Projected Reception Numbers

• Averaged 6 catches per game at LSU in 2019 (84 catches in 14 games)
• 70+ receptions is realistic target for rookie season
• For reference: Tyler Boyd had 79 catches and Tee Higgins had 67 catches in 2020
• 17-game schedule provides additional opportunity

Offensive Rookie of the Year Potential

• Only 3 WRs have won OROY in last 20 years (Boldin, Harvin, Beckham Jr.)
• Would likely need:
  • 90+ receptions
  • 1,000+ receiving yards
  • Multiple touchdowns
  • Comparable impact to past WR winners like Beckham Jr. (1,305 yards, 12 TDs)

The transition should be smoother than most rookie receivers due to his pre-existing relationship with Burrow and NFL-ready skillset, making him a strong candidate for immediate impact in Cincinnati's passing attack.

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