The Cincinnati Bengals are facing a significant challenge as star wide receiver Tee Higgins remains steadfast in his demands for a trade or a long-term contract extension. With organized team activities (OTAs) on the horizon, Higgins has made it clear he won’t participate until his demands are met.
Standoff at OTAs: Tee Higgins Refuses to Sign Franchise Tender
As reported by Adam Schefter, Higgins is the only player this year to receive the franchise tag who hasn’t yet signed an extension. He has also refused to sign the franchise tender, rendering him ineligible for OTAs. This move signals Higgins’ firm stance: he either wants a lucrative long-term deal or a trade to a team that will offer him one.
The Bengals have a deadline of July 15 to negotiate a long-term extension with Higgins. Should Higgins relent and agree to play under the franchise tag, he would earn $21.8 million for the season. However, Higgins is prioritizing future security over this substantial paycheck.
Cincinnati Bengals’ Dilemma: Trade or Extend?
So far, the Bengals have not shown any willingness to trade Higgins, and extension negotiations have yet to yield results. This impasse has created a tense situation, with both the team and the player standing their ground. Cincinnati risks losing one of their key offensive weapons, while Higgins risks forfeiting significant earnings if the situation remains unresolved.
The Bigger Picture: Tee Higgins’ Value and Cincinnati Bengals’ Strategy
Higgins’ decision to sit out OTAs is a strategic move in his ongoing standoff with the Bengals. For a player of his caliber, missing OTAs is not a significant concern. Veteran players often skip these activities without detrimental effects on their performance.
The heart of the matter lies in the strained relationship between Higgins and the Bengals. Higgins is seeking compensation that reflects his status as a top wide receiver, but the team appears more focused on securing a contract extension for fellow receiver Ja’Marr Chase. Investing in Higgins presents more uncertainty for the Bengals, especially given his dip in production last season.
Statistical Perspective: Tee Higgins’ Performance
In 2021 and 2022, Higgins posted impressive 1,000-yard seasons, solidifying his reputation as a reliable receiver. However, his production declined in 2023, with 656 yards and five touchdowns over 12 games. This drop in performance saw Tyler Boyd surpass Higgins in receiving yards, while Ja’Marr Chase continued to dominate the stat sheets.
Evaluating Higgins’ true market value is challenging due to his role as the secondary option to Chase for most of his career. Despite this, Higgins’ talent is undeniable, and his potential value on the open market remains high.
The Road Ahead
Higgins’ refusal to sign the franchise tender and his absence from OTAs signify a critical juncture in his career with the Bengals. While this situation doesn’t necessarily spell the end of Higgins’ time in Cincinnati, it highlights the need for a resolution. Whether through a trade or a long-term contract, the Bengals must decide how to move forward with one of their top offensive players.
