Tee Higgins to Play 2024 Season Under Franchise Tag
The Cincinnati Bengals and wide receiver Tee Higgins were unable to secure a long-term contract extension before the NFL's July 15 deadline for franchise-tagged players. As a result, Higgins will enter the 2024 season under the franchise tag.
Higgins was the sole player among the eight franchise-tagged individuals this offseason who did not land a new contract, setting the stage for potentially significant implications for both the player and the team. On June 15, 2024, Higgins signed his one-year franchise tender, which guarantees him $21.816 million for the upcoming season. The Bengals placed the franchise tag on him in late February 2024.
Despite being vocal about his desire for a lucrative extension and even missing the Bengals' mandatory minicamp, Higgins now appears focused and ready to contribute. Head coach Zac Taylor expressed optimism about Higgins' return, stating, "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."
Higgins' Stats and Struggles
Over four seasons with the Bengals, Higgins has established himself as a focal point in the team's offensive scheme. He has surpassed 1,000 receiving yards twice, showcasing his capability as a reliable target. However, the 2023 season saw Higgins limited to 12 games due to a hamstring injury. Despite this setback, he managed to accumulate 656 yards and five touchdowns on 42 receptions. His consistency is further highlighted by his track record of posting at least five touchdowns in each season since being drafted in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft out of Clemson.
Trade Request and Team Dynamics
Notably, Higgins requested a trade after being franchise-tagged in February 2024, a request the Bengals opted not to grant. This mirrors past situations with players like Jessie Bates III and Jonah Williams. Bates played out his tagged season before departing in free agency, while Williams remained with the team under the tag before exploring free agency opportunities himself.
Looking to the Future
As Higgins gears up for the 2024 season, it will be crucial for both him and the Bengals to adapt and capitalize on the situation. With the significant financial guarantee of his franchise tag, Higgins has ample motivation to perform at an elite level, potentially setting the stage for an even more lucrative long-term contract in the future, whether with the Bengals or another team.
His return to the fold is likely to have a positive impact on the Bengals' locker room, bringing back a highly productive player who has been a pivotal part of the offense. With head coach Zac Taylor's endorsement and the team's shared goal of a successful 2024 season, all eyes will be on how Higgins integrates back into the lineup and whether he can replicate or surpass his previous performances.
The narrative surrounding Higgins and his tenure with the Bengals will be one to watch as the season progresses. His ability to navigate the challenges of playing under the franchise tag while maintaining his high level of play will be critical, not just for his own career but also for the Bengals' aspirations in the highly competitive NFL landscape.