Tee Higgins Plays Franchise Tag Season with Bengals
The Cincinnati Bengals and wide receiver Tee Higgins faced a critical moment this offseason, as both parties failed to agree on a long-term contract before the NFL's July 15 deadline for franchise-tagged players to sign extended deals. Subsequently, Higgins is set to play the 2024 season under the franchise tag, signed on June 15, which guarantees him a hefty sum of $21.816 million.
Despite the lucrative contract, the path to this point has been anything but smooth. Higgins, who started his NFL career with the Bengals after being drafted in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft out of Clemson, has proven his value on the field. He has surpassed 1,000 yards receiving twice in his four seasons with the team and has posted at least five touchdowns each year. However, last season, a hamstring injury limited him to only 12 games, during which he still managed to accumulate 656 yards and five touchdowns on 42 receptions.
Desiring a more secure future, Higgins requested a trade after being designated with the franchise tag in late February 2024; his request was promptly denied by the Bengals' front office. Following in the footsteps of Jessie Bates III and Jonah Williams—former Bengals who also played out their franchise-tagged seasons before exploring free agency—Higgins faces a season holding franchise-tag status without the security of a long-term extension.
As one of the eight franchise-tagged players in the league this offseason, Higgins stands out as the only one who did not secure a new contract. His decision to sit out of the Bengals' mandatory minicamp in search of a more lucrative deal underscored the tension between him and the team's management.
Despite the tumultuous offseason, Bengals head coach Zac Taylor expressed optimism about the impending season. "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, highlighting the team's eagerness to integrate Higgins back into their plans.
The Bengals now look to capitalize on Higgins’ mix of size, speed, and skill, which has made him a crucial component of their offensive arsenal. His presence on the field offers a dependable target for quarterback Joe Burrow and creates more opportunities for fellow wideouts and the running game.
Higgins' journey this season will be closely monitored, not only for his on-field contributions but also for its implications on his future with the Bengals. Whether he follows the path of Bates, leaving in free agency after fulfilling his tagged year, or remains a long-term fixture in Cincinnati, remains to be seen. What is certain is that Tee Higgins will be a pivotal figure in the Bengals’ pursuit of success in the 2024 NFL season.