JUST IN: Stunning Trade Proposal Sends Bengals’ Playmaker  to the AFC South…

A surprising trade proposal could see Tee Higgins, a standout wide receiver, joining the Jacksonville Jaguars in the AFC South this offseason. Reports suggest this trade could significantly boost Trevor Lawrence’s bid for a top contract as the Jaguars search for a new WR1 following Calvin Ridley’s departure. The Cincinnati Bengals are grappling with decisions about the Clemson product’s future amidst team uncertainty about securing him on a long-term deal.

Currently, the Bengals have franchise-tagged Higgins but haven’t finalized a long-term contract. Higgins is refusing to sign the franchise tag tender, preventing his participation in OTA’s. Both parties have until July 15th to reach an agreement, but this seems unlikely. This hesitation is speculated to be due to the hefty contract already given to star quarterback Joe Burrow, with Ja’Marr Chase also needing a future deal. This financial balancing act might lead to Higgins or Chase moving on to a new team. If Higgins doesn’t hold out and sign the tender, this could be his last season in Cincinnati, although he has requested a trade despite expecting to play for the Bengals this season.

Given his impressive back-to-back 1,000-yard receiving seasons in 2021 and 2022, Higgins’s potential departure could make waves. If traded, several teams would likely show interest, particularly the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he could reunite with former Clemson teammate Trevor Lawrence. The Jaguars need a new playmaker after trading Ridley to the Titans. According to Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine, a potential deal could see Higgins and a 2025 sixth-round pick traded to Jacksonville for a 2025 second-round pick. This move would require Jacksonville to work out a desirable contract for Higgins. With the Bengals needing to eventually extend Chase, having two high-paid wide receivers might not be feasible, possibly disrupting Burrow’s offensive chemistry.

**Potential Trade Destinations for Higgins**

Aside from Jacksonville, other teams could benefit from Higgins. The Chargers, for instance, need proven talent despite drafting Ladd McConkey. With Mike Williams and Keenan Allen gone, Justin Herbert could use a deep threat like Higgins. The Ravens also need a replacement for Odell Beckham Jr. after extending Rashod Bateman, although a trade between Baltimore and Cincinnati seems unlikely due to their rivalry. Lastly, the Carolina Panthers, with Bryce Young, could become playoff contenders by adding Higgins alongside Diontae Johnson and rookie Xavier Legette, providing a long-term solution to their offensive needs.