Will he hit the open market?
One of the most important issues facing the Cincinnati Bengals this offseason is the future of star wide receiver Tee Higgins.
Higgins recorded a career-high in touchdowns this season with 10 in only 12 games. Despite his recent string of injuries, he would be the top wide receiver on the free agent market when the new league year begins in March.
Should he hit the open market, one team is already reportedly looking in to signing him, per All-Pro receiver Devante Adams.
On an appearance on Up and Adams, hosted by Kay Adams, the former Green Bay Packers star said his former team could pursue Higgins.
This could all be avoided, quite literally, at any time, should the Bengals choose to simply re-sign Higgins. After playing 2024 on the franchise tag, his contract technically ended after the team’s finale in Pittsburgh. The Bengals could sign him to an extension at any time.
Franchise quarterback Joe Burrow and fellow star receiver Ja’Marr Chase have made it clear they want Higgins back in Cincinnati. To do that, all three may need to make a sacrifice. Burrow could restructure his contract to free up some money, while Chase and Higgins both take less money on the new contracts they would sign with the team.
Higgins switched agents midseason, joining the same agency that represents Chase. Given the Bengals’ noted struggles with Higgins’ former agent, David Mulughetta, that works in their favor if they want to retain him.
Should Higgins hit free agency this spring, Green Bay and many other teams will certainly be lining up to give the fifth-year pro a hefty payday.
