The NFL has always been a physical sport, built on toughness and grit. Players are trained to hit hard and take hits like bulls in a prizefight. Off the field, many of them keep that same tough attitude. So it’s rare to see their softer side.
But Mother’s Day is one of those days when NFL players let that part of themselves shine. This year, Cincinnati Bengals star Ja’Marr Chase did just that, sharing a heartfelt message for his mom, Toleah.
Ja’Marr Chase Honors Mom Toleah With Heartfelt Message On Mother’s Day
Chase has been one of the Bengals’ biggest draft wins in recent years. This offseason, he signed a massive four-year, $161 million extension, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history.
Still, on Mother’s Day, Chase took time to honor the woman behind his success — his mom, Toleah.
“Happy mother’s day beautiful,” he wrote in an Instagram story featuring a childhood photo with her.
“Haha finding old pics be killing me,” Chase added.
Toleah has been by Chase’s side from the beginning. After signing his $19 million rookie contract in 2021, one of the first things he did was buy her a new car and pay off the $100,000 mortgage on their family home.
Chase was born in Harvey, Louisiana, and stayed loyal to his Louisiana roots. He first made a name for himself at Archbishop Rummel High School in Metairie, a suburb of New Orleans, before starring at LSU.
Now, seven years later, he’s the highest-paid non-QB in the league — and many say he’s earned every penny. Chase broke out as a rookie in 2021 with 1,455 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns, averaging 18 yards per catch and winning Offensive Rookie of the Year.
MORE: Latest Trey Hendrickson Rumors
He’s made the Pro Bowl every season since, earned two All-Pro nods, and won the rare Triple Crown in 2024 by leading the NFL in catches (127), receiving yards (1,708), and touchdowns (17).
After the Bengals showed their trust with that extension, Chase isn’t slowing down. With Joe Burrow at quarterback and Tee Higgins on the other side, the Bengals are once again expected to be Super Bowl contenders in 2025.
