The Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly considering a bold move that could send rivals into a state of high alert: trading for Cincinnati Bengals’ standout wide receiver, Tee Higgins. The AFC North is notorious for its intense rivalries and unpredictable drama, both on and off the field. Yet, the latest buzz suggests a surprising twist that might just redefine team dynamics in this fiercely competitive division.
The Ripple Effect of a Pittsburgh Steelers’ Mid-Draft Trade
The Steelers are well-known for their strategic acumen, particularly in nurturing talent from mid-round draft picks. This approach was highlighted by their recent decision to trade Diontae Johnson to the Carolina Panthers, a move that left a notable void in their receiver lineup. Despite this, head coach Mike Tomlin’s team is rumored not to prioritize a wide receiver in the early rounds of the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft.
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Instead, insider Andrew Fillipponi has shed light on internal discussions about a potential trade with the Bengals for Tee Higgins, who has been tagged with a franchise tag but expressed his desire for a new team. This development comes at a critical time, as the NFL Draft approaches on April 25, a period known for accelerating trade discussions and decisions.
What Would a Pittsburgh Steelers-Cincinnati Bengals Trade Look Like?
Engaging in a trade with a division rival is never simple. As reported by Jordan Schultz from Bleacher Report, the Bengals initially sought a second-round pick for Higgins, but might settle for a third. However, the Steelers are contemplating offering a second-round pick along with a future fifth-rounder to make the deal more appealing.
This potential trade not only demonstrates Pittsburgh’s willingness to invest heavily in proven talent but also signifies a strategic shift to focus more on bolstering the offensive line in the earlier draft rounds. The move would utilize Pittsburgh’s additional fifth-round pick in 2025, effectively leveraging their surplus draft capital without significant immediate loss.
The Financial Implications and Strategic Moves
Acquiring Higgins is just the beginning. The Steelers face the challenge of fitting Higgins’ potential contract demands under their current cap space, which stands just over $12 million. Higgins is likely to seek a long-term deal worth around $18-20 million annually.
To accommodate this, Pittsburgh might need to restructure the contracts of key players like T.J. Watt, Minkah Fitzpatrick, and Alex Highsmith, which could free up an additional $7-9 million each.
Cincinnati Bengals’ Perspective
For Cincinnati, losing Higgins to a division rival is far from ideal. Yet, it might be a strategic move to extract maximum value from a player unwilling to continue with the team. This trade would give the Bengals additional draft capital, with three picks in the top 51, enhancing their ability to reshape their roster around other key players like Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase.
A Trade with Wide-Ranging Implications
If this trade materializes, it could significantly alter the balance of power in the AFC North, showcasing the Steelers’ commitment to maintaining their competitive edge and the Bengals’ willingness to optimize their team dynamics, even if it means dealing within the division. Such a move would not only stir the pot but could potentially set the stage for some high-stakes matchups in the seasons to come.
Source: Fansided
