In the midst of swirling trade rumors, star wide receiver Tee Higgins has provided a significant update on his future with the Cincinnati Bengals.
The Bengals, who placed the franchise tag on Higgins ahead of free agency, have been at the center of speculation regarding the future of the talented receiver.
Whatever Tee Higgins did on this play https://t.co/PQICUl2s5i pic.twitter.com/OBFbvUJeJ6
— obscure bengals (@obscure_bengals) April 15, 2024
Reports emerged suggesting that Higgins had requested a trade shortly after being tagged, raising questions about his future, especially since the Bengals have multiple lucrative contracts that need to be hammered out.
The thought by many is that Higgins could be the odd man out.
No one likes playing on the franchise tag. Perhaps Higgins realized that his long-term future in Cincinnati may be in doubt and decided it was best to request a trade.
I NEVER wanna hear anyone say the Bengals don’t have the money to extend Tee Higgins ever again. That discussion is over. Clearly it’s more than doable.
— Andre (@AndreBengals) April 15, 2024
However, in his most recent comments, Higgins made it clear that he expects to be a Bengal – at least for the upcoming season.
When asked about his future with the team, Higgins said: “We’ll see, I do anticipate it. I’ve grown a love for Cincy that I didn’t think I would, but (I’m) looking forward to it.”
New @WLWT: Tee Higgins says he does anticipate playing for the Bengals in 2024. pic.twitter.com/kMh0Lar8Ws
— Charlie Clifford (@char_cliff) April 14, 2024
The Bengals approach to retaining star players has often been conservative, with notable exceptions like star quarterback Joe Burrow.
This offseason, the team made cap-saving moves, including the trade of standout running back Joe Mixon and allowing two-time 1,000-yard wideout Tyler Boyd to enter free agency.
Boyd’s current unsigned status adds further intrigue to the Bengals offseason plans.
Bengal.
See you in the Jungle, Tee Higgins! pic.twitter.com/Y1Zw0IkRBd
— Patrick Carey (@PatCareySports) April 14, 2024
Owner Mike Brown faces looming decisions regarding contract extensions, notably for star receiver Ja’Marr Chase.
The impending financial commitments coupled with Higgins’ franchise tag create a complex scenario for the Bengals front office.
Bengals WR Tee Higgins seems to accept that he'll be playing under the franchise tag for 2024. Considering the receiver market and the fifth-year options for first-round receivers taken that year, $21.8 million for one year isn't a bad deal. https://t.co/VeVakunCq2
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) April 15, 2024
Should the Bengals opt not to trade or extend Higgins, he will play the 2024 season under the $21.8 million tag, potentially entering free agency in 2025.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Higgins’ on-field contributions cannot be understated.
When healthy, Higgins has been a consistent force on the field and has developed a strong and obvious chemistry with Burrow.
He’s not drama and not a diva. He’s the best!
— Lauren (@redsbengalsfan1) April 14, 2024
While trade offers may tempt the Bengals, retaining Higgins could prove pivotal in their short-term aspirations.
Standing at 6-foot-4, Higgins has established himself as an ideal complement to the Bengals receiving corps, particularly in the absence of Boyd.
Additionally, Higgins’ impressive postseason performances further underscores his importance to the organization.
In seven career playoff games, he has hauled in 31 receptions for 457 yards and three touchdowns, showcasing his ability to shine under pressure.
Would you draft Tee Higgins?
Then pay Tee Higgins. Sick of this team crying poor.
— Tony! Toni! Toné! Chopper! (@letstweetdan) April 11, 2024
How do you think the situation plays out?
Will we continue to see Higgins in orange and black this upcoming season? … Will the Bengals ultimately work out a long-term deal to keep him in Cincy?
Or do you think he will end up being traded???
The Bengals have not spoken to franchise tagged WR Tee Higgins since he requested a trade last month, per @nfldraftscout 👀 pic.twitter.com/Mr3L4LspcK
— SN Ohio (@SN_Ohio) April 11, 2024