Tee Higgins to Play Under Franchise Tag in 2024
As the NFL offseason progresses, one significant storyline has taken center stage: Tee Higgins, the Cincinnati Bengals’ star wide receiver, will be playing out the 2024 season under the franchise tag. This decision comes after contract negotiations failed to produce a long-term extension before the league's deadline, setting the stage for a high-stakes year for both Higgins and the Bengals.
Higgins, who had requested a trade back in March, will still don the Bengals uniform despite his attempts to seek greener pastures. The Bengals, firmly believing in Higgins’ potential and value to the team, did not acquiesce to his trade request. Instead, they opted to secure his talents under the franchise tag, guaranteeing him $21.8 million for the upcoming season. This move underscores Higgins' importance to the team's offensive strategy, where he was assumed to be a top target of quarterback Joe Burrow for years to come.
Fans and analysts alike were surprised by the negotiation gridlock, especially given Higgins' integral role in the Bengals’ offensive dynamics. Reporting to training camp on July 23 alongside other veterans, Higgins faces an uncertain yet critical season ahead. His performance this year could set the tone for future contract discussions, either with the Bengals or potentially other interested teams.
Financial Constraints and Strategic Moves
The Bengals' financial commitments have likely played a role in the ongoing contract saga. Notably, the team recently made Joe Burrow the highest-paid player in the NFL with a monumental five-year, $275 million extension. This substantial financial outlay highlights the team’s priority on securing Burrow, which may have complicated their ability to offer a competitive long-term deal to Higgins.
Meanwhile, other teams around the league are keeping a close eye on Higgins' situation, evaluating their own financial flexibility for a potential trade and extension. The New York Jets, for instance, have $6.254 million in cap space for the season. While this isn't a considerable amount, they could get creative in their accounting for a Higgins extension by providing him with a massive signing bonus and backloading his contract to defer larger cap hits to future years.
The Washington Commanders stand in a more favorable position with $37 million in cap space, while the New England Patriots lead with $43.763 million available. The Los Angeles Chargers also present an intriguing option, having $20.656 million in cap space this season, and a projected nearly $43 million in 2025. These teams could leverage their cap space to orchestrate a deal that fits both their immediate and long-term plans.
Future Implications
Moving forward, the Bengals' decision to tag Higgins sets a crucial precedent. By retaining Higgins under the franchise tag, the team retains a key weapon for Burrow in their pursuit of an NFL championship. However, Higgins' future with the Bengals remains uncertain. Should the team fail to secure a long-term deal with Higgins in the coming year, they risk losing one of their most dynamic offensive players.
On the market, a trade and contract for Higgins will most certainly cost less than trading for other top-tier receivers like Adams. Teams with adequate cap space and a need for a top target should closely monitor Cincinnati's handling of Higgins’ contract situation. This season will be pivotal for Higgins, who will aim to prove his worth and secure a lucrative long-term contract, either with the Bengals or a new team eager to capitalize on his talents.
As the 2024 season approaches, all eyes will be on Higgins and the Bengals. The outcome of this franchise tag designation and any subsequent moves will not only impact Higgins' career but also the competitive landscape of the NFL. One thing is clear: Tee Higgins is a cornerstone player whose future remains one of the most compelling narratives of the upcoming NFL season.