The Cincinnati Bengals finished their 2024 campaign with a 9-8 mark and missed playoff contention once more, forcing an offseason decision-making process on player contracts like Tee Higgins’ contract – in keeping with last season, they used franchise tag designation to secure Tee for two straight years and still retain negotiations until July 15.
Prospects of a Long-Term Agreement with Tee Higgins
The 2024 season represented Tee Higgins’ fifth year as part of the Bengals, during which he has accumulated significant playing time across 70 games with 62 starts, despite battling injuries. His performance in 2024 was notable, with Higgins participating in 12 games, starting nine, and achieving 73 catches for 911 yards and a career-best 10 touchdowns. His average of 75.9 yards per game was his second-highest to date.
Higgins earned himself his second franchise tag since 2024’s $21.8 Million tag was put in effect; this one will set at $26.2 Million. The Bengals have announced their intention of continuing negotiations for an extended contract agreement by July 15 – which Higgins has done repeatedly throughout his time at Cincinnati. His presence and skill on the field make Higgins invaluable asset.
Ja’Marr Chase and Higgins are widely considered among the elite wide receiver tandems in the league, so their Bengals decision to franchise-tag Higgins again may have been heavily influenced by Chase’s incredible 2024 season, in which he led in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdown receptions to earn himself the Triple Crown award. An impending substantial extension for Chase may encourage Higgins’ retention following that deal and underscore quarterback Joe Burrow’s goal to retain both key receivers for 2025 season playback.