Ja’Marr Chase reveals toughest CB he’s faced — and it’s an unexpected name

When one thinks about the toughest cornerbacks Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase has faced so far in the pros, the mind usually wanders to names like Denzel Ward and Jalen Ramsey (and probably Joey Porter Jr. soon enough).

But asked about the topic by former NFL defensive back Devin McCourty, Chase brought up an expected name — Tampa Bay Buccaneers star Carlton Davis.

Chase said the following: “For me, I’d say Carlton Davis. Only reason I say Carlton Davis is because he longer than I expected, longer arms, and he ain’t got no knee bend — he just hunched his back over and played defense. I think I’ve played him twice, too, and he made some good plays on me, so I ain’t never gonna forget that one.”

Maybe Davis isn’t the biggest name out there, but Bengals fans surely remember him giving Chase problems in Week 15 last season during a 34-23 Cincinnati road win.

In that matchup, Chase caught just seven of his 13 targets for 60 yards and a score and Davis wasn’t in coverage on the touchdown. Joe Burrow threw four scores on the day but was forced away from Chase, mostly due to Davis.

If nothing else, it speaks to Chase’s ability to give props outsiders wouldn’t expect and Davis’ ability to make sure one of the game’s best hits the interview circuit like this.

SNF Interview: #Bengals star WR Ja’Marr Chase sat down with 2x Pro-Bowl CB Devin McCourty.

McCourty asked, “Who is the best DB that you’ve played against?”

Chase’s answer? Carlton Davis.

(NFL on NBC/YT) pic.twitter.com/AGXVtx8Dpp

— Arye Pulli (@AryePulli) November 4, 2023