Higgins to Play Under Franchise Tag for Bengals
Star wide receiver Tee Higgins will play out the 2024 NFL season under the franchise tag, following stalled contract negotiations with the Cincinnati Bengals. Despite attempts to secure a long-term extension, both parties failed to reach an agreement before Monday's deadline, ensuring that Higgins will earn a fully guaranteed $21.8 million this season.
Higgins's Future with the Bengals
Higgins will be a notable presence as he joins Bengals veterans for training camp on July 23. However, his commitment to the team comes with a backdrop of discontent. In March, Higgins requested a trade, a plea that the Bengals declined to accommodate. This unresolved situation casts a shadow over what was once assumed to be a long-term partnership with Joe Burrow. "It was assumed he would be a top target of Burrow's for years to come," an observer commented.
Bengals' Financial Priorities
The Bengals, meanwhile, have solidified their commitment to their quarterback by making Joe Burrow the highest-paid player in the NFL with a five-year, $275 million extension. The significant financial outlay for Burrow raises questions about the team's ability to keep other key players like Higgins satisfied and within their ranks.
Options for Potential Suitors
The scenario invites speculation regarding potential destinations for Higgins if the Bengals decide to rethink their stance. The New York Jets, with $6.254 million in cap space, might find it tricky but not impossible. "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," another reviewer speculated.
More realistically, the Washington Commanders and New England Patriots, with $37 million and $43.763 million in cap space respectively, could be in the running. The Los Angeles Chargers, enjoying $20.656 million in cap space this season and a projected nearly $43 million in 2025, also stand as viable contenders. It has been noted, "A trade and contract for Higgins will most certainly cost less than trading for Adams," which makes Higgins an even more attractive proposition compared to other top-tier receivers.
What Lies Ahead
With cap space details and potential strategies in mind, the league will surely keep an eye on how the Higgins saga unfolds. For now, the wide receiver remains a Bengal, poised to deliver on-field excellence. However, the broader narrative hints at inevitable negotiations and possible team changes in the coming future.