Tee Higgins Set to Play Under Franchise Tag After Failed Contract Negotiations
In a notable turn of events, the Cincinnati Bengals and wide receiver Tee Higgins did not reach a long-term contract extension before the NFL's crucial July 15 deadline for franchise-tagged players. Consequently, Higgins will play the 2024 season under the franchise tag, a move both sides had hoped to avoid.
Higgins' journey through this offseason has been marked by attempts to secure a lucrative deal, but the resolution came without an extension. The standout receiver was the only player among the NFL's eight franchise-tagged individuals this year to remain unsigned to a new contract. Instead, Higgins signed his franchise tender on June 15, 2024, ensuring him $21.816 million for the upcoming season.
Seeking Stability Amid Uncertainty
The franchise tag was placed on Higgins by the Bengals in late February 2024, a decision that has since created ripples within the team's dynamics. Higgins, who has showcased significant talent and consistency, missed the Bengals' mandatory minicamp as he pushed for a more secure, long-term extension. The absence sparked discussions about his future and commitment to the team.
Despite his efforts and a subsequent request for a trade after being tagged, the Bengals stood firm, denying the trade request and expecting Higgins to bring his proven abilities back to the field. Speaking on the matter, Bengals head coach Zac Taylor expressed optimism about Higgins' return: "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."
Performance and Potential
Since being drafted in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft out of Clemson, Higgins has demonstrated why he is a valuable asset to the Bengals. Over his four seasons with the team, Higgins surpassed 1,000 yards receiving in two of those years, cementing his status as a reliable and productive receiver on the roster.
However, the most recent season saw Higgins' performance curtailed by a hamstring injury, limiting him to just 12 games. Even with this setback, he managed to accumulate 656 yards and five touchdowns on 42 receptions, showcasing his potential impact on the field when healthy.
The Bengals have experienced similar franchise tag scenarios with past players such as Jessie Bates III and Jonah Williams. Bates played out his tagged season before moving on in free agency, while Williams remained with the team, fulfilled his tagged season, and then explored opportunities in free agency. Higgins' situation appears to echo these past experiences, adding another layer of expectation and speculation.
A Proven Track Record
Higgins' track record speaks for itself. In each season with the Bengals, he has consistently posted at least five touchdowns, proving his ability to contribute to the team's offensive success. His presence on the field has been a significant factor in the Bengals' offensive strategies, and his chemistry with quarterback Joe Burrow remains a critical element in the team's ambitions for the upcoming season.
As the Bengals gear up for the 2024 season with Higgins under the franchise tag, the focus will be on maintaining performance levels and maximizing his contributions during this pivotal year. The wide receiver's proven skills and determination to achieve bigger goals will be closely watched by both teammates and opponents alike.
While the franchise tag guarantees Higgins a substantial one-year payday, the unresolved long-term contract issues leave questions about the future. Both the Bengals and Higgins will need to navigate this season with an eye towards potential negotiations next offseason, determining if a prolonged partnership remains possible or if Higgins will eventually take his talents elsewhere.
As the Bengals continue to strategize their path forward, the return of Tee Higgins to the locker room brings a mix of hope, potential, and the undeniable reality of the business side of professional sports. The 2024 season will be a defining period for both player and team, setting the stage for future negotiations and aspirations.