Tee Higgins and the Cincinnati Bengals will navigate the 2024 NFL season under the shadow of contractual uncertainties, as they failed to reach a long-term deal before the July 15 deadline for franchise-tagged players. Consequently, Higgins will play the upcoming season under the franchise tag, valued at $21.816 million.
Contractual Standoff
Higgins, who was the sole player among the league's eight franchise-tagged individuals this offseason to not secure a new contract, signed his one-year franchise tender on June 15, 2024. This signing guarantees him a hefty payment for the season but leaves his long-term future with the team in question.
Efforts to agree on an extended contract were evident as Higgins skipped the Bengals' mandatory minicamp in hopes of negotiating a lucrative extension. However, the talks did not bear fruit, leading to his franchise tag which the Bengals placed on him in late February 2024.
The wide receiver's desire for a more stable, long-term agreement was underscored by his request for a trade in the wake of being franchise-tagged. The Bengals, however, opted not to grant this request, retaining Higgins' services for at least another season.
Consistent Performer
Drafted by the Bengals in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft out of Clemson, Higgins has delivered consistently for the team. He has surpassed 1,000 yards receiving twice in his four seasons, demonstrating his value on the field. Notably, despite being limited to 12 games due to a hamstring injury in the most recent season, Higgins managed to accumulate 656 yards and five touchdowns on 42 receptions.
In each of his seasons with the Bengals, Higgins has contributed at least five touchdowns, proving to be a reliable option for the team's offensive plays. His performance has made a significant impact, even in seasons marred by injuries.
Previous Tag Situations
Higgins is not the first player from the Bengals to face such a situation. Past players like Jessie Bates III and Jonah Williams have also navigated their careers under the franchise tag. Bates played out his tagged season before departing in free agency, while Williams stayed with the team for his tagged year before exploring opportunities elsewhere. Higgins' predicament mirrors these past experiences, contributing to the ongoing narrative surrounding the Bengals and franchise tags.
Team and Coach Looking Forward
Despite the intricate contract dynamics, there is optimism within the Bengals' camp. Head coach Zac Taylor expressed his pleasure in having Higgins back with the team, remarking, "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's comments highlight the importance of Higgins' return not just on the field but also within the team dynamics. The upcoming season presents an opportunity for Higgins to further cement his value and potentially secure the desired long-term contract, either with the Bengals or elsewhere.
As the 2024 season approaches, all eyes will be on how Higgins performs under the franchise tag and whether this chapter in his career will pave the way for new contractual agreements in the future. For now, Bengals fans can look forward to seeing one of their key playmakers back in action, contributing to their quest for success.