Tee Higgins to Play 2024 Season Under Franchise Tag
The Cincinnati Bengals and wide receiver Tee Higgins were unable to reach a long-term deal before the NFL’s July 15 deadline for franchise-tagged players, compelling Higgins to play the 2024 season under the franchise tag. This development leaves Higgins as the only player among the league's eight franchise-tagged individuals this offseason who did not secure a new contract.
Higgins signed his one-year franchise tender on June 15, 2024, ensuring a substantial $21.816 million for the upcoming season. The move comes after a series of negotiations and a notable absence from the Bengals' mandatory minicamp, where Higgins sought a lucrative extension. Despite these efforts, both parties were unable to arrive at an agreement.
“I’m excited to move forward with Tee. He’s done a great job handling his situation, and we are happy to get him back in the fold so we can start working toward a great 2024 season. The locker room will be excited to have him back around,” remarked head coach Zac Taylor, expressing optimism about Higgins' return amid the contract stalemate.
Higgins' Journey and Performance
Higgins, drafted by the Bengals in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft out of Clemson, has been a significant offensive weapon for the team. Over his four seasons with Cincinnati, Higgins has surpassed 1,000 yards receiving twice and has consistently posted at least five touchdowns each season.
In the most recent season, Higgins faced challenges, including a hamstring injury that limited him to 12 games. Despite the setback, he managed to accumulate 656 yards and five touchdowns on 42 receptions. This performance underscores his resilience and value to the Bengals’ offensive lineup.
Franchise Tag and Trade Request
The Bengals placed the franchise tag on Higgins in late February 2024, a move that mirrored previous situations with players like Jessie Bates III and Jonah Williams. Notably, Bates played out his tagged season before leaving in free agency, while Williams stayed with the team, exploring free agency opportunities thereafter.
Following the franchise tag, Higgins requested a trade in February 2024, a request the Bengals ultimately did not grant. This decision aligns with the team's strategy of retaining key players, an approach that has seen mixed results in past instances.
What Lies Ahead
Higgins’ circumstances place him in a pivotal position for the 2024 season. With a guaranteed salary and another chance to showcase his talent, Higgins has the opportunity to either solidify a long-term deal with the Bengals or attract interest from other teams once his tagged season concludes.
Fans and analysts alike will closely monitor Higgins' performance and his contributions to the Bengals' campaign. As Taylor outlined, the team's focus is now on integrating Higgins back into the fold and capitalizing on his skills to advance their goals for the season.
Given Higgins' track record and potential, his time under the franchise tag in 2024 will be a significant storyline, adding to the rich tapestry of NFL narratives centered around player contracts, performance, and team dynamics.