Bengals’ Focus on Tee Higgins
The Cincinnati Bengals are making every effort to secure wide receiver Tee Higgins with a long-term contract, a move that has been publicly championed by quarterback Joe Burrow. Higgins, who has quickly become one of the most pivotal players in the Bengals’ offense, is a cornerstone of Burrow’s passing game and the team’s future aspirations. Despite his importance, if the Bengals fail to reach a contract agreement with Higgins by March 4, they are likely to use the franchise tag on him for the second consecutive offseason, according to NFL Media reporter Tom Pelissero. This strategy would ensure that Higgins remains with the team while providing additional time for negotiations.
The Financial Implications
In 2024, Higgins was tagged at a salary of $21.8 million, which is the standard one-year, fully guaranteed contract for players designated with the franchise tag. If the Bengals use the tag again in 2025, the NFL’s rules mandate a 20 percent raise, bringing Higgins’ salary to $26.18 million for the upcoming season. This figure represents a significant investment for the Bengals, but it is a testament to Higgins’ value and the team’s commitment to retaining him. The franchise tag would also extend the deadline for long-term negotiations to July 15, allowing both sides more time to find a mutually beneficial agreement.
Higgins’ Market Value
Had the Bengals allowed Higgins to enter free agency, he would have undoubtedly been one of the most sought-after wide receivers on the market. His consistent performance and explosive playmaking ability have made him a top talent in the NFL. Since being drafted in the second round in 2020, Higgins has amassed an impressive 330 receptions for 4,595 yards and 34 touchdowns. In the 2024 season alone, he had 73 receptions for 911 yards and a career-high 10 touchdowns, further cementing his status as a key player for the Bengals. The projection of Higgins as the top free agent at his position underscores the pressure on the Bengals to keep him in Cincinnati.
Career Milestones and Impact
Tee Higgins, now 26 years old, has made a significant impact on the Bengals’ offense since his rookie year. His ability to stretch the field, run precise routes, and make tough catches in traffic has been invaluable. In 2024, Higgins not only set a new personal record in touchdowns but also demonstrated his leadership and chemistry with Joe Burrow, which are crucial for the team’s success. His 73 receptions and 911 yards were instrumental in the Bengals’ offensive strategies, making him a versatile and reliable target in both short and deep passing plays. Higgins’ contributions have been recognized league-wide, and his presence on the field is a major factor in the Bengals’ playoff ambitions.
Injury Concerns
However, Higgins’ recent injury history adds a layer of complexity to the contract negotiations. He has missed five games in each of the past two seasons, which raises concerns about his durability and long-term value. The Bengals are well aware of the importance of having a healthy roster, and Higgins’ frequent absences due to injuries are a significant consideration. The team will need to balance the risk of investing a substantial amount of money into a player who has shown vulnerability to injuries with the potential benefits of keeping a proven, high-impact player in their lineup. This aspect of Higgins’ contract talks reflects the detailed and often challenging nature of NFL management.
Looking to the Future
As the Bengals and Higgins work toward a long-term deal, the support from Joe Burrow and the broader organization is clear. The quarterback has been a vocal advocate for Higgins, recognizing the wide receiver’s contributions to the team’s success. Burrow’s relationship with Higgins is a prime example of the camaraderie and trust that can form within a professional team, which is essential for sustained performance and wins. If the franchise tag is used again, it will be a temporary measure to keep Higgins in Cincinnati while both parties continue to negotiate a more permanent solution. The Bengals are hopeful that a fair and comprehensive long-term contract can be reached, ensuring that Higgins remains a vital part of their future plans.
