Star wide receiver Tee Higgins is set to play out the 2024 NFL season under the franchise tag. Despite months of contract negotiations with the Cincinnati Bengals, a long-term deal could not be reached by Monday's deadline, leaving Higgins to earn a fully guaranteed $21.8 million this season.
Higgins, who is regarded as a key offensive weapon for the Bengals, will report to training camp when veterans convene on July 23. His decision to play under the franchise tag came after his request for a trade in March was denied by the team. The Bengals' refusal to trade him underscores their intention to keep their receiving corps strong, especially after making Joe Burrow the highest-paid player in the NFL with a five-year, $275 million extension.
"It was assumed he would be a top target of Burrow's for years to come," highlighting the expectation that Higgins would play a pivotal role in the Bengals' offensive strategy. Higgins' presence on the field will be crucial if the Bengals aim to remain competitive in the AFC.
Possible Trade Scenarios
While Higgins is locked in for the upcoming season, speculation about his future continues to swirl. The New York Jets have been mentioned as a potential suitor, although they face significant cap space constraints. With only $6.254 million in cap space remaining for the season, the Jets would have to employ creative accounting strategies to fit Higgins under their salary cap. "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."
Meanwhile, other franchises are in a more advantageous financial position to make a move. The Washington Commanders have $37 million in cap space, and the New England Patriots boast a substantial $43.763 million. The Los Angeles Chargers, with $20.656 million available this season and nearly $43 million projected for 2025, could also be contenders should they decide to pursue Higgins.
Economic Impact
A trade and new contract for Higgins is speculated to be more financially viable compared to other high-profile trades. "A trade and contract for Higgins will most certainly cost less than trading for Adams," indicating that teams looking for a top-tier wide receiver might find Higgins to be a more cost-effective option.
The upcoming season will be pivotal for both Higgins and the Bengals. Playing under the franchise tag puts Higgins in a position to prove his worth on the field, potentially setting himself up for a lucrative contract next year, whether with the Bengals or elsewhere. For Cincinnati, Higgins' performance could be the difference in a highly competitive AFC North division.
As the season approaches, all eyes will be on how the dynamics between Higgins, Burrow, and the Bengals' front office play out, setting the stage for either a harmonious extension or a fresh start for the talented receiver elsewhere in the league.