Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins will enter the 2024 NFL season under the franchise tag, following unsuccessful negotiations for a long-term contract before the NFL's July 15 deadline for franchise-tagged players. Higgins, who was the only player among the eight franchise-tagged individuals this offseason not to secure a new contract, will play the upcoming season on a one-year deal worth $21.816 million.
A Year Under the Franchise Tag
The Bengals initially placed the franchise tag on Higgins in late February 2024, setting the stage for what has become a season of uncertainty for the fourth-year wideout. As part of the franchise tag process, Higgins signed his one-year franchise tender on June 15, 2024, which solidifies his participation for the upcoming season.
Despite the lucrative payout for a single season, Higgins had been angling for a more long-term commitment with the Bengals. His efforts to secure a contract extension included skipping the Bengals' mandatory minicamp as he pursued a more lucrative deal, reflecting his desire for stability and recognition of his talents. Additionally, Higgins requested a trade after being tagged, but the Bengals opted to keep the talented receiver within the fold.
Higgins' Performance and Value
Since being drafted in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft out of Clemson, Higgins has consistently been a significant contributor to the Bengals’ offense. In his four seasons with the team, Higgins has twice surpassed 1,000 yards receiving and has maintained an impressive record of at least five touchdowns in each season.
However, the most recent season posed challenges for Higgins, as a hamstring injury limited him to just 12 games. Even with the limited playtime, Higgins managed to accumulate 656 yards and five touchdowns on 42 receptions, underscoring his value and resilience on the field.
Similar Paths of Franchise-Tagged Players
Higgins' current situation is reminiscent of past Bengals players who operated under the franchise tag. Notably, safety Jessie Bates III and offensive tackle Jonah Williams faced comparable scenarios in recent seasons. Bates opted to play out his tagged year before moving on in free agency, while Williams stayed with the team throughout his tagged season and then explored free agency opportunities.
Moving Forward
Despite the frustrations and uncertainties surrounding his contract status, the Bengals coach Zac Taylor expressed optimism about Higgins' upcoming participation. "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 remarked.
Higgins' return is undoubtedly a boost for the Bengals, as his skillset and on-field presence are integral to the team's offensive strategies. As the 2024 season approaches, all eyes will be on Higgins to see how he navigates his tagged year and contributes to the Bengals' quest for success.
While the future beyond the 2024 season remains uncertain for Higgins in terms of contract negotiations, what remains clear is his commitment to delivering top-tier performances on the gridiron. With the support of his teammates and coaching staff, Higgins will aim to capitalize on his guaranteed $21.816 million season, setting the stage for potential negotiations post-season and reaffirming his status as one of the key assets for the Cincinnati Bengals.