Ja'Marr Chase enters the 2026 NFL season as the clear alpha target in Cincinnati's pass-heavy offense, coming off a resolved left knee hyperextension from late August that has not limited his Week 1 preparation. Paired with quarterback Joe Burrow, whose availability has driven Chase's efficiency and red-zone production in prior seasons, the wideout posted 17 receiving touchdowns in 2024 while leading the league in several categories; his 2025 total fell to eight touchdowns amid Burrow's absences. Analysts project continued high target volume exceeding 170, with Chase publicly setting a personal mark of 23 touchdowns to challenge the single-season record, though team depth at wide receiver and schedule factors will influence opportunities. Burrow's durability and the Bengals' overall passing rate remain the dominant variables shaping expectations for Chase's touchdown output over the full 17-game slate.