Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins, whose rookie contract concluded after the 2023 season, is poised to become a free agent in the upcoming offseason.
Speculations have arisen regarding the feasibility of retaining both Higgins and fellow star wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase, given the expiration of their rookie contracts.
Despite quarterback Joe Burrow securing one of the most substantial deals in NFL history, he emphasizes the importance of re-signing Higgins.
While Chase’s rookie contract extends until the following year, he has expressed his desire to negotiate an extension during the current offseason. Tee Higgins, in an interview with Bleacher Report, conveyed the significance of the Bengals expressing their wish for him to return to the team.
He emphasized the familial bond developed over three or four years of playing together and expressed his personal inclination to continue with the Bengals if the opportunity arises.
Discussing the potential extension, Higgins acknowledged the uncertainties of the situation and emphasized the need to focus on securing a favorable deal for himself this year. He also mentioned considering the contracts of other wide receivers like CeeDee Lamb and Justin Jefferson.
Higgins played a pivotal role in the Bengals’ transformative 2020 draft, where he was selected in the second round after quarterback Joe Burrow.
Despite falling just short of 1,000 receiving yards in his rookie season, Higgins has amassed 3,684 yards and 24 receiving touchdowns in his four-year career. Known for stepping up when needed, he showcased his skills in critical moments, such as in a game against the Minnesota Vikings when Ja’Marr Chase was unavailable.
A potential concern for Higgins is his playing time, as he has participated in 65% of the Bengals’ total snaps since joining in 2020, with his rookie year recording the highest snap percentage at 74.8%.
Regardless of his decision to stay with the Bengals or explore opportunities with other teams, Tee Higgins is expected to be a prominent option in any NFL offense due to his reliable hands and ability to win contested catches.
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