Unhappy with receiving the franchise tag from Cincinnati, Tee Higgins is reportedly seeking to play elsewhere next season. The Bengals wide receiver has requested a trade, as revealed by CBS Sports lead NFL insider Jonathan Jones. Higgins’ dissatisfaction stems from the lack of discussions regarding a long-term contract extension with the team.
Cincinnati opted to place the franchise tag on Higgins before the onset of free agency, entitling him to a $21.8 million contract. However, this arrangement only offers a one-year deal, prompting Higgins to pursue alternative options.
Drafted early in the second round during the same draft that saw the Bengals secure franchise quarterback Joe Burrow, Tee Higgins initially emerged as Burrow’s primary target before later assuming the secondary role behind Ja’Marr Chase. Throughout his four NFL seasons, Higgins has amassed 257 receptions for 3,684 yards and 24 touchdowns. His standout performances occurred in 2021 and 2022, during which he recorded over 1,000 receiving yards in each season, accompanied by a combined total of 13 touchdowns. Although he encountered challenges with injuries and efficiency in 2023, Higgins, aged 25, is poised to reach his peak performance in the coming years.
Presumably, any team seeking wide receiver assistance would find Tee Higgins’ skills appealing, given his ability to perform as a top-tier option in a proficient passing offense. While the Bengals are not obligated to honor Higgins’ trade request, similar situations often lead to deals being struck.
Beginning Wednesday, non-Bengals teams are permitted to initiate contact with Higgins. Once he gains insight into his potential market value, his discontent with receiving the franchise tag may intensify. Alternatively, another team could sign him outright, with the Bengals receiving two first-round draft picks in exchange. Alternatively, Cincinnati could negotiate a trade involving different forms of compensation.
Should Higgins secure the trade he desires, it’s probable that he will also command a substantial long-term contract, potentially placing him at the forefront of the market. This development could impact negotiations for future extensions involving players such as Chase, CeeDee Lamb, Justin Jefferson, and Brandon Aiyuk during this offseason.