The offseason for the Cincinnati Bengals has started with a big decision – placing the franchise tag on wide receiver Tee Higgins. This move ensures that the Bengals have the opportunity to retain Higgins for at least another season. If a long-term agreement is not reached by July 15, Higgins will be restricted to a one-year deal worth $21.816 million, which is the leaguewide franchise tag amount for wide receivers in 2024. The deadline for teams to use the franchise or transition tag is March 5.
Higgins, a second-round draft pick in 2020, has been a valuable asset to the Bengals since joining the team. In his first four seasons, he has accumulated 257 receptions for 3,684 yards and 24 touchdowns. Additionally, in seven postseason games, he has added 31 receptions for 457 yards and three touchdowns. Bengals coach Zac Taylor expressed his satisfaction with Higgins’ performance, stating that he is pleased that Higgins will continue to be a significant part of both the offense and the team.
This offseason marks the second consecutive year where talks about Higgins’ long-term future with the Bengals have arisen. At last year’s NFL scouting combine, Bengals executive Duke Tobin shut down any potential trade rumors involving Higgins. However, despite the desire to keep him on the team, the two parties have not yet reached an agreement on a long-term extension, leading to the franchise tag being placed on Higgins.
Higgins is not the only high-priced player on the Bengals’ roster. Quarterback Joe Burrow signed a record-breaking five-year contract extension worth $275 million in 2023, setting the record for the highest annual average salary in the NFL. Burrow’s salary cap hit for 2025 is projected to be $46.3 million. Additionally, wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase, who has made the Pro Bowl in each of his first three NFL seasons, is also expected to command a top salary in the league due to his exceptional performance on the field.
The Bengals’ decision to franchise tag Tee Higgins highlights their commitment to maintaining a competitive roster for the upcoming season. However, with key players like Burrow and Chase also commanding significant salaries, the organization will need to carefully navigate their financial resources to ensure long-term success.
Leave a Reply