As picked up by Dov Kleiman, ESPN NFL senior writer Jeremy Fowler reported that the Cincinnati Bengals are inclined to let wide receiver Tee Higgins test the free agency market after the 2024 season.
The Bengals were headed in that direction this season, as Higgins could have been a casualty in the team’s efforts to clear cap space for Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase. However, the salary cap’s exponential rise allowed Cincinnati to retain Higgins via the franchise tag worth $21,816,000.
Higgins sat out the Bengals’ first two games of 2024 due to a hamstring injury. Since then, he has played in six games, tallying 38 catches for 489 yards and four touchdowns. While averaging 81.5 yards per game, he’s also norming at a career-low 12.9 yards per catch.
The current feeling is that the #Bengals will let WR Tee Higgins hit the open market, per @JFowlerESPN
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) November 20, 2024
The #Patriots are reportedly very interested. pic.twitter.com/w10PQl2FMm
At his best, he had consecutive 1,000-yard seasons in 2021 (1,091) and 2022 (1,029). Unfortunately for him, Ja’Marr Chase’s output has overshadowed his accomplishments.
However, the former Clemson standout has manifested flashes of brilliance during what could be his final season with the Bengals. He never went below 82 yards in his last four games and dominated the Los Angeles Chargers with nine catches for 148 yards and a touchdown.
As Fowler reported, the New England Patriots could be interested in acquiring Higgins, which would give Drake Maye an upgrade in his receiving corps. Likewise, the Chargers, through safety Derwin James, are reportedly recruiting the 2020 third-round selection.
-Lance Fernandez