The Cincinnati Bengals will use the franchise tag on wide receiver Tee Higgins again this year, but it comes with a higher price tag. Last season’s $21.8 million figure is expected to be around $25 million for the 2024 season.
Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase now share the same agent, which may complicate negotiations. The Bengals have to balance Higgins’ desire to stay in Cincinnati with other players seeking big contracts.
The franchise tag allows teams to extend a player’s contract while giving themselves time to work out long-term deals. However, repeated use of the tag increases costs. With Higgins’ value at an all-time high, the Bengals must decide whether to keep him or trade him to another team.
Quarterback Joe Burrow has expressed his desire to retain Higgins and Chase, citing their impact on the team’s success. The front office faces a challenge in finding a solution that works for everyone involved.
Higgins has played 70 games over five seasons with 330 catches, 4,595 yards, and 34 touchdowns. With the franchise tag window open, Cincinnati’s front office must navigate this complex situation to ensure Higgins’ future with the team.
Source: https://eu.cincinnati.com/story/sports/nfl/bengals/2025/02/18/bengals-tee-higgins-franchise-tag-window-opens/78981603007