In a significant development for the Cincinnati Bengals, wide receiver Tee Higgins will be playing the 2024 season under the franchise tag after failing to reach a long-term extension before the NFL's July 15 deadline. This places Higgins in a unique situation as he remains the only one out of the league’s eight franchise-tagged players this offseason without a new contract.
Higgins' Contract Situation
Higgins has signed his one-year franchise tender on June 15, 2024, which guarantees him a sum of $21.816 million for the upcoming season. This move follows a period of negotiation during which Higgins sought a lucrative extension but ultimately did not succeed in securing one. His absence from the Bengals’ mandatory minicamp further underscored his commitment to obtaining a long-term deal.
As part of the franchise tag process, the Bengals placed the tag on Higgins back in late February 2024. Despite Higgins' request for a trade following the tagging, the team chose not to honor his request.
Past Comparisons and Future Implications
Higgins' situation is not unprecedented within the Bengals’ recent history. The team has previously employed the franchise tag on players like Jessie Bates III and Jonah Williams. Bates played out his tagged season before entering free agency, while Williams stayed with the team through his tagged season and then explored free agency opportunities.
This strategy, which has had varying outcomes for the players involved, now provides a clear framework for Higgins' immediate future. "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," said Head Coach Zac Taylor.
Higgins' Performance and Impact
Since being drafted by the Bengals in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft out of Clemson, Higgins has proven to be a valuable asset to the team. He has surpassed 1,000 yards receiving twice in his four seasons with the Bengals and consistently posted at least five touchdowns in each season. His resilience was especially evident in the most recent season when, despite being limited to 12 games due to a hamstring injury, he accumulated 656 yards and notched five touchdowns on 42 receptions.
Higgins' on-field contributions highlight his importance to the Bengals' offense. His capability to produce under pressure and maintain performance levels through injuries suggests that his presence is invaluable as the team looks to build momentum for a strong 2024 season.
Looking Forward to 2024
As the Bengals move into the 2024 season with uncertainties about Higgins’ long-term position, both the team and the player have clear objectives. For Higgins, playing under the franchise tag presents an opportunity to further establish his value and secure the long-term deal he seeks, whether with the Bengals or in free agency afterward. For the Bengals, having Higgins back in the lineup will be crucial as they aim to make a deep run in the postseason.
The 2024 season now stands as a pivotal point for both parties. Higgins' performance could shape his career trajectory, while the Bengals will be looking to capitalize on his talents to achieve their goals on the field. Whether this season will be Higgins’ swan song with the Bengals or a stepping stone to a more permanent tenure remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: all eyes will be on Tee Higgins as the season unfolds.