ESPN has started the week by offering predictions for NFL teams that have been eliminated from the playoffs. One prediction from ESPN’s Aaron Schatz focuses on the Cincinnati Bengals and their star wide receiver, Tee Higgins, who is poised to become a free agent when the new league year begins in March.
According to Schatz, the Bengals are likely to utilize the franchise tag to retain Higgins, ensuring that he remains a part of the Cincinnati roster for at least one more season.
“The Bengals will place the franchise tag on Higgins instead of trading him to another team as often rumored. They are currently sixth in projected cap space for 2024 and can easily fit the franchise tag into their budget and keep this high-end offense rolling.”
This scenario could prove to be beneficial for Higgins, as he has demonstrated his worth as a WR1 caliber player. However, his statistics during his contract year were not particularly eye-catching, primarily due to injuries, both to himself and to quarterback Joe Burrow.
If Higgins indeed plays the 2024 season under the franchise tag alongside a healthy Burrow, it would provide him with an opportunity to boost his market value ahead of the 2024-25 offseason. Remarkably, Higgins will only be 26 years old at that time, making him an attractive prospect for potential suitors.
During the 2023 NFL season with the Cincinnati Bengals, Tee Higgins ended up catching 42 passes for 656 yards and five touchdowns. He struggled with nagging injury issues and only played in 12 games.
While there is a chance that Cincinnati might choose to extend Higgins’ contract during this offseason, it would be wise for him to explore the open market after the upcoming season to maximize his financial value.
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