The Cincinnati Bengals faced a disappointing season, finishing 9-8 despite losing their star quarterback, Joe Burrow, in Week 11 against the Baltimore Ravens. Looking ahead to the 2024 offseason, a crucial decision for the team revolves around what to do with star wide receiver Tee Higgins. The team is expected to use the franchise tag on him, preventing him from hitting the open market where he could potentially secure a lucrative deal, given that the franchise tag for wide receivers is anticipated to be $20.7 million.
Higgins, drafted by the Bengals in 2020 from Clemson University, had a standout 2021 season with 1,091 receiving yards in 14 games, contributing to the team’s Super Bowl run. However, injuries limited his appearances to 12 games in the 2023 season, where the Bengals struggled when he was inactive, with a 2-3 record. Despite being the WR2, Higgins ranked among the top 20 receivers in football from 2021-2022.
The Bengals aim to retain Higgins, forming a formidable trio with Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase under new OC Dan Pitcher. With the franchise tag, Cincinnati can secure him for at least one more season, leveraging their ample cap space of over $60 million. An extension is also possible. However, it remains uncertain how Higgins views the franchise tag, as most players prefer negotiating their contracts.
If Higgins were to enter the open market, several teams, including the Kansas City Chiefs, New England Patriots, New York Jets, and Carolina Panthers, would express interest in signing him, potentially offering $20 million or more annually. While Cincinnati has financial flexibility, Higgins’ stance on the franchise tag is unclear. The possibility of him agitating for a trade exists, but currently, there are no indications, and he seems open to returning to Ohio, particularly considering the team’s Super Bowl aspirations, provided the terms align.
