Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins has officially signed his one-year franchise tender for the 2024 season. However, while his immediate future with the team is secure, questions linger about his long-term prospects.
A recent tweet by NFL Rumors (@nflrums) offers an update on the Cincinnati Bengals’ wide receiver situation:
“#Bengals announced they have signed Tee Higgins to a 1-yr deal.”
#Bengals announced they have signed Tee Higgins to a 1-yr deal. pic.twitter.com/dUuu02p2zb
— NFL Rumors (@nflrums) June 17, 2024
This brief statement confirms that Tee Higgins, a key player for the Bengals, has signed a one-year contract with the team. While this development provides some clarity, it also raises questions about the long-term future of Higgins in Cincinnati.
Tee Higgins Franchise Tag
Higgins, a fifth-year wideout, received the franchise tag in February. Despite not participating in recent organized team workouts, he will earn $21.8 million—the designated franchise tag value for receivers this upcoming season. The Bengals, armed with a healthy Joe Burrow at quarterback, look forward to another season with Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase forming one of the NFL’s top wideout duos.
Uncertain Long-Term Prospects
Higgins has played in the shadow of Chase since his second season in 2021. Chase, expected to receive a long-term contract extension similar to Justin Jefferson’s deal with the Minnesota Vikings, has dominated the spotlight. The Bengals’ decision not to offer a long-term deal to their No. 2 receiver reflects this dynamic.
Higgins, a second-round draft pick in 2020, boasts an impressive resume: 257 catches for 3,684 yards and 24 touchdowns, including back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons in 2021 and ’22. He played a crucial role in the Bengals’ Super Bowl run after the 2021 season, despite battling a rib injury last year.
Bengals coach Zac Taylor expressed excitement about having Higgins back in the fold: “The locker room will be excited to have him around.” Now, all eyes are on the upcoming season, where Higgins aims to make a lasting impact.
