The Cincinnati Bengals’ preparations for the upcoming NFL season hit a snag right at the outset of their organized team activities (OTAs) on Tuesday, as key players Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins were noticeably absent. The duo’s absence is particularly concerning given that both are in the midst of contract negotiations with the team.
A Closer Look at Cincinnati Bengals’ OTA Dilemma
As the Bengals kicked off their OTAs, the absence of their top two wide receivers cast a shadow over the session. Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, both vital to the team’s offensive strategy, are currently seeking new contracts, which explains their absence from these voluntary workouts. While players don’t need to attend OTAs, the absence of such key figures is certainly unsettling for fans and team management alike.
Ja’Marr Chase, only 24, is coming off a stellar 2023 season with 100 receptions, 1,216 yards, and seven touchdowns, marking his third consecutive Pro Bowl appearance. Having been drafted fifth overall by the Bengals in the 2021 NFL Draft, Chase quickly proved his worth, helping the team reach the Super Bowl in his rookie year.
Five observations from today’s voluntary #Bengals OTA:
1. How does Joe Burrow look at practice?
Mike Hilton speaks for all us (listen until the end) pic.twitter.com/MCW9IpsDKs— Dan Hoard (@Dan_Hoard) May 28, 2024
On the other hand, Tee Higgins’ situation is more complicated. After being tagged with a franchise tag earlier this offseason to delay his free agency, Higgins has yet to sign his franchise tender. This situation not only prevents him from participating in the offseason activities but has also led him to request a trade—a request that Cincinnati seems unlikely to fulfill at the moment.
Cincinnati Bengals Financial Conundrum
The Bengals find themselves in a financial tightrope walk as they already commit a significant portion of their salary cap to quarterback Joe Burrow, who earns $55 million annually. Securing Chase with a lucrative extension will be a priority, which might leave limited room for Higgins’ long-term deal.
Higgins, disappointed with his injury-marred 2023 performance, might just play out his final days in Cincinnati, especially if he signs his franchise tender to play one more season before hitting free agency in March.
This scenario presents a challenge for the Bengals, who finished last season with a 9-8 record and missed the playoffs. The team’s ability to manage its financial resources and player satisfaction will be crucial in their quest for a more successful 2024 campaign.
Cincinnati Bengals Final Thoughts
While the start of OTAs has brought some uneasy moments for Bengals fans, it’s important to remember these workouts are voluntary. The real concern will begin if these contract disputes extend into mandatory training sessions.
For now, the Bengals’ management will be working diligently behind the scenes to secure their star players and ensure team stability heading into the crucial months leading up to the new season.
Source: nflanalysis
