High Stakes for Tee Higgins as He Plays Under Franchise Tag in 2024
The Cincinnati Bengals and Tee Higgins find themselves at a crossroads as the young wide receiver prepares to play the 2024 season under the franchise tag. Despite efforts from both sides to reach a long-term extension before the NFL's July 15 deadline, the talks fell through, leaving Higgins to navigate his future in a pivotal year.
Higgins, who has been a crucial part of the Bengals’ aerial attack since being drafted in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft out of Clemson, signed his one-year franchise tender on June 15, 2024. This guarantees him $21.816 million for the upcoming season. However, it is clear that Higgins had hoped for a more secure and lucrative deal, as evidenced by his absence from the Bengals' mandatory minicamp while negotiating for an extension.
Despite surpassing 1,000 yards receiving twice in his four seasons, Higgins faced a tumultuous offseason. He was among the league's eight franchise-tagged players this year but stood out as the only one unable to secure a new contract. This situation mirrors past experiences of Bengals players Jessie Bates III and Jonah Williams, both of whom also played out their tagged seasons under uncertain futures.
During the most recent season, Higgins was limited to 12 games due to a hamstring injury. Nevertheless, he managed to accumulate 656 yards and five touchdowns on 42 receptions. These numbers, while impressive given his limited playtime, underscore the kind of impact Higgins has when fully fit and emphasize why the Bengals were keen to retain him under the franchise tag.
Higgins’ contract saga took another twist when he requested a trade after being tagged in February 2024. However, the Bengals, understanding his value to the team, denied the trade request. "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," said head coach Zac Taylor, clearly expressing the team's sentiment and hopes regarding Higgins' return.
The Bengals' use of the franchise tag in recent years has drawn attention to the team's approach to managing high-performing players approaching free agency. Jessie Bates III, for instance, played out his tagged season in Cincinnati before moving on in free agency. Jonah Williams, on the other hand, stayed with the team and subsequently explored opportunities in the open market after his tagged year.
For Higgins, the 2024 season will serve as both a challenge and an opportunity. His performance over the next months will be crucial not only for Cincinnati's success but also for his future, whether that remains with the Bengals or elsewhere. Given his track record, including consistent seasons with at least five touchdowns each year, Higgins will look to cement his reputation as one of the league’s premier receivers.
Living up to the expectations that come with a $21.816 million price tag is no small feat, but if Higgins' past performances are any indication, he is more than capable of rising to the occasion. The Bengals are banking on his resilience and talent to push through any challenges, including lingering questions about his long-term future with the team.
As the 2024 NFL season approaches, all eyes will be on Higgins. His ability to overcome offseason turmoil and a recent injury will be pivotal in bolstering the Bengals' bid for another deep playoff run. Regardless of the eventual outcome, Higgins' journey this season will be a narrative worth following, echoing the high-stakes drama that is intrinsic to the world of professional football.