The Cincinnati Bengals and star wide receiver Tee Higgins have reached a pivotal juncture, as the two parties failed to agree on a long-term extension before the NFL's July 15 deadline for franchise-tagged players. Higgins, who signed his one-year franchise tender on June 15, 2024, will play the upcoming season under the franchise tag, guaranteeing him $21.816 million.
Higgins' situation is particularly notable because he is the only one among the league's eight franchise-tagged players this offseason who did not secure a new contract. The Bengals tagged the wide receiver in late February 2024, a move that was followed by Higgins' request for a trade. However, the Bengals ultimately denied this request, prompting Higgins to remain with the team for another year.
Despite the contractual standstill, Bengals head coach Zac Taylor remains optimistic about Higgins' return to the field. "I'm excited to move forward with Tee. He's done a great job handling his situation, and we are happy to get him back in the fold so we can start working toward a great 2024 season. The locker room will be excited to have him back around," Taylor said.
A Consistent Performer
Since being drafted by the Bengals in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft out of Clemson, Higgins has consistently performed at a high level. He has surpassed 1,000 yards receiving twice in his four seasons with the Bengals and has recorded at least five touchdowns each year. In the most recent season, despite being limited to 12 games due to a hamstring injury, Higgins managed to accumulate 656 yards and five touchdowns on 42 receptions.
Higgins' ability to perform despite injury disruptions underscores his value to the team. However, his recent absence from the Bengals' mandatory minicamp, as he sought a more lucrative extension, highlighted the ongoing tension between the player and the organization.
Past Precedents
The Bengals' recent history with franchise-tagged players suggests a pattern of contentious negotiations. Safety Jessie Bates III and offensive tackle Jonah Williams both faced similar situations while under the franchise tag. Bates played out his tagged season before leaving in free agency, whereas Williams stayed with the team and then explored free agency opportunities.
Higgins' current predicament mirrors these past instances, raising questions about his long-term future with the Bengals. While playing under the franchise tag guarantees him a substantial salary for the upcoming season, the lack of a long-term commitment indicates an uncertain future.
Looking Forward
As the Bengals gear up for the 2024 season, the focus will inevitably turn to how Higgins' presence can impact the team’s performance. His proven track record suggests that he will be a crucial weapon for quarterback Joe Burrow. The Bengals' offense will likely rely heavily on Higgins' ability to stretch the field and create scoring opportunities.
Higgins’ contract situation will continue to be a focal point as the season progresses. Both the player and the organization will have to navigate the complexities of the franchise tag, with potential future negotiations or trade considerations looming on the horizon.
For now, Bengals fans can look forward to seeing Tee Higgins don the team colors for at least one more season, hoping his on-field contributions can lead the team to new heights. With Zac Taylor's endorsement and the locker room support, the Bengals and Higgins could still script a successful chapter in an otherwise turbulent narrative.