Posted November 2, 2025

Cincinnati Bengals star Ja’Marr Chase has stepped into the center of a growing controversy — defending Erika Kirk after Jason Kelce called her viral Ole Miss speech a “calculated fundraising stunt.”

In an exclusive interview on Sunday, Chase didn’t mince words.Man, that’s just wrong,” Chase said. “You can’t call out someone for trying to do something positive. Erika’s been working hard for her cause — and if she raises money doing it, what’s the problem? That’s called impact, not manipulation.”

Kelce’s remarks, made earlier this week during a podcast appearance, accused Kirk of using her emotional campus speech for self-promotion. According to Kelce, the event’s timing and media coverage made it “clear she was trying to boost her own profile under the cover of charity.”

Chase wasn’t having it.

“Look, I know what fake looks like — and that’s not Erika,” Chase continued. “People love to hate when someone gets attention for doing something good. But attention is how change starts. You can’t make an impact in silence.”

The Bengals receiver, known for his outspoken personality and deep involvement in youth programs across Ohio and Louisiana, said the criticism reflects a bigger problem — people being quick to tear down others’ success.

“We’ve got to stop acting like every good thing someone does has an angle,” he said. “If you’ve got a voice and you’re using it to help, that should be celebrated, not questioned.”

Chase’s comments quickly went viral, drawing praise from fans who applauded his bold defense of Kirk — and criticism from those who believe Kelce was just being “honest.” But Chase made it clear he stands by his words.

“Everybody talks about ‘authenticity,’ right?” he said. “Well, being authentic means standing for what you believe in — even when it’s not popular. That’s what Erika did, and that’s what I’m doing now.”

Chase also pointed out that as public figures, athletes have the ability — and responsibility — to influence positive change, whether through charity, fundraising, or community work.

“People forget — football ain’t forever,” he said. “What we do off the field is what lasts. If you can use your name to help somebody eat, or learn, or feel seen — you do it. Simple as that.”

As debate around Kelce’s comments continues to spark headlines, Chase’s strong defense of Erika Kirk adds a new layer to the discussion about authenticity, visibility, and purpose in modern athlete activism.

“You can call it a stunt all you want,” Chase said. “But if that stunt feeds families, funds schools, or helps somebody believe in themselves — then maybe we need more so-called ‘stunts’ like that.”

With that, the Bengals star once again proved he’s not afraid to speak his mind — on or off the field.

“Real recognizes real,” Chase concluded. “And Erika’s as real as they come.”