The Cincinnati Bengals have made a significant move to secure their top receiver, Tee Higgins, by applying the franchise tag. This decision ensures that Higgins will not become an unrestricted free agent and will be offered a one-year, fully-guaranteed contract worth an impressive $21.816 million. With this announcement coming just before the start of the Scouting Combine, the Bengals are sending a clear message to other teams interested in recruiting Higgins during this crucial period – don’t bother.
The franchise tag serves as a temporary measure to retain key players and prevent them from exploring other options in free agency. It provides teams with the opportunity to negotiate a long-term deal while ensuring that their star players remain under contract for at least another season. In Higgins’ case, the Bengals and the talented receiver will have until July 15 to work out a multi-year agreement that satisfies both parties.
Looking ahead, if Higgins were to be tagged again in 2025, he would be entitled to a 20-percent raise, resulting in a contract worth $26.18 million. Considering this potential future scenario, it is reasonable for Higgins to expect a substantial contract with a significant amount of money guaranteed at signing. A figure of at least $48 million fully guaranteed seems like a fair expectation for a player of his caliber.
However, the Bengals’ decision to apply the franchise tag to Higgins raises questions about their ability to retain both him and their other star receiver, Ja’Marr Chase, in the long run. Chase, who is eligible for a major second contract, undoubtedly desires a lucrative deal of his own. Balancing the financial demands of two top-tier receivers can be a challenging task for any team, and the Bengals will need to carefully manage their salary cap to keep both players on board.
The Bengals’ commitment to retaining their top receivers highlights their belief in the offensive firepower they possess. With Higgins and Chase forming a formidable duo, Cincinnati’s passing game has the potential to become one of the most explosive in the league. The team’s decision to prioritize these receivers also demonstrates their confidence in quarterback Joe Burrow, who will benefit greatly from having such talented targets at his disposal.
As negotiations continue between the Bengals and Higgins, fans eagerly await the outcome. The franchise tag provides a temporary solution, but securing a long-term deal would solidify Higgins’ future with the team. In the meantime, the Bengals have made it clear that they are determined to keep their top receivers intact, signaling their intent to compete at the highest level in the seasons to come.
