Tee Higgins, the emerging star wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals, will play the 2024 NFL season under the franchise tag after failing to secure a long-term extension before the July 15 deadline. This decision positions Higgins as the only player among the eight franchise-tagged individuals this offseason to not land a new contract.
Signing the Tender
Higgins officially signed his one-year franchise tender on June 15, 2024, securing himself a lucrative $21.816 million for the upcoming season. This move came after a period of uncertainty and negotiation, where Higgins skipped the Bengals' mandatory minicamp in pursuit of a lucrative extension. His absence from the minicamp underscored the significance of his contract situation and his desire to negotiate terms that reflected his value to the team.
Performance Insights
Since being drafted by the Bengals in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft out of Clemson, Higgins has demonstrated exceptional on-field performance. Over four seasons, he has surpassed 1,000 yards receiving twice, showcasing his ability to be a consistent and reliable target. Even in the most recent season, marred by a hamstring injury that limited him to 12 games, Higgins managed to accumulate 656 yards and five touchdowns on 42 receptions. His knack for reaching the end zone remains undiminished, as he has recorded at least five touchdowns in each of his seasons with the team.
Handling Adversity
In late February 2024, the Bengals placed the franchise tag on Higgins, prompting him to request a trade—a request the Bengals did not grant. This move mirrored the experiences of past Bengals players Jessie Bates III and Jonah Williams, who both navigated the complexities of playing under the franchise tag. Bates eventually left in free agency after his tagged season, while Williams remained with the team before exploring free agency options post his franchise-tagged year.
Coach's Confidence
Despite the contract impasse, Head coach Zac Taylor has expressed positivity about having Higgins back in the fold. "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 stated, emphasizing the high regard in which Higgins is held within the team's ecosystem.
Looking Forward
With his franchise tag secured, Higgins' focus will now shift to contributing to what the Bengals and their fans hope will be a successful 2024 campaign. The spotlight will be on him to deliver top-tier performances and potentially set the stage for further contract negotiations next offseason. Navigating this situation skillfully will be crucial for both Higgins and the Bengals as they aim for cohesiveness and success on the field.
In sum, while the long-term future remains uncertain, Higgins' immediate path is clear. With his place for the 2024 season secured, all eyes will be on how he leverages this opportunity to further solidify his standing as a key player in the Bengals' offensive lineup.