Tee Higgins: Playing Under the Franchise Tag for Bengals, Future Still Uncertain
The Cincinnati Bengals' star wide receiver Tee Higgins is set to play out the 2024 NFL season under the franchise tag, after contract negotiations failed to produce a long-term extension by the Monday deadline. Higgins, who has been a crucial asset for the Bengals' offense, will earn a fully guaranteed $21.8 million this season.
Notably, Higgins had requested a trade in March, seeking a resolution to his contract predicament elsewhere. However, the Bengals did not acquiesce to his trade request, opting instead to ensure that one of Joe Burrow's top targets remains on the roster for at least another year. "It was assumed he would be a top target of Burrow's for years to come," reflecting the level of expectation and reliance placed on Higgins within the Bengals' offensive scheme.
Contract Negotiations and Franchise Tag
Despite the franchise tag, there is an undercurrent of uncertainty about Higgins' future in Cincinnati. The fact that the Bengals did not move forward with a trade implies a determination to keep their offensive unit intact. Higgins will be reporting to training camp when veterans convene on July 23, signaling his professional commitment even amid the unresolved contract situation.
The Bengals' decision to franchise tag Higgins comes on the heels of making Joe Burrow the highest-paid player in the NFL with a five-year, $275 million extension. This substantial investment in Burrow underscores Cincinnati’s prioritization of solidifying the quarterback position while navigating salary cap constraints that impact other key players like Higgins.
Trade Possibilities
Although Higgins remains with the Bengals for now, speculation about potential trade scenarios has been rife, particularly in light of cap space considerations for interested teams. The New York Jets, for instance, only have $6.254 million in cap space for the season. While limited, their flexibility could be enhanced through strategic financial maneuvering. "The New York Jets don't have a ton of cap space left to play with for this season, but they could get creative in their accounting for a Higgins extension by providing him with a massive signing bonus and backloading his contract to defer larger cap hits to future years."
Other teams appear better positioned financially. The Washington Commanders have $37 million in cap space, the New England Patriots boast $43.763 million, and the Los Angeles Chargers sit with $20.656 million available this season. The Chargers, in particular, are projected to have nearly $43 million in cap space in 2025, making them a potential suitor should Higgins's situation with the Bengals remain unresolved through the year.
For teams considering the cost-benefit analysis, a trade and contract for Higgins is seen as a financially sound option compared to other high-profile receivers in the market. "A trade and contract for Higgins will most certainly cost less than trading for Adams," offering a more economical yet impactful alternative for receiver-needy franchises.
Looking Forward
As the NFL season approaches, Tee Higgins' role in the Bengals' plans remains pivotal. His presence at training camp on July 23 will be closely watched. While the franchise tag ensures his tenure for the upcoming season, the lack of a long-term contract continues to cast shadows over his future with the Bengals. In the high-stakes world of NFL negotiations and strategic planning, the next move by either party could significantly reshape the landscape for Higgins and the Cincinnati Bengals.