The NFL offseason is in full swing. The Cincinnati Bengals have enjoyed many of their top players being on rookie deals over the past couple of seasons. That isn’t the cast anymore. Quarterback Joe Burrow got a massive extension, and Ja’Marr Chase is likely next. This left Tee Higgins as the odd man out, and many wondered what the team would do with him this offseason. The front office didn’t take long to make a decision. Tee Higgins has received the franchise tag from the Cincinnati Bengals.
Cincinnati Bengals Use Franchise Tag On Tee Higgins
Source: The #Bengals informed star WR Tee Higgins that they are franchising him.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 24, 2024
This isn’t necessarily surprising. The Cincinnati Bengals have been adamant about keeping their talented receiver. Putting the franchise tag on him means he cannot test the free agency waters. If he were to hit the open market, he would be one of the top targets for many teams. If he does end up signing the franchise tag, it will pay out an estimated $21.8 million, which will be fully guaranteed. However, I expect both sides to be motivated to get a long-term deal done.
Can The Cincinnati Bengals & Tee Higgins Agree On Deal?
The two sides could not get a deal done last offseason. This led to many wondering whether he was on the trade block. The franchise tag gives the team exclusive rights to negotiate with Higgins. There is still a chance the Cincinnati Bengals can sign him to a long-term deal, and this prevents competition. Higgins will also be motivated to get a deal done.
While $21 million guaranteed sounds great, players want long-term deals. Careers can change in a split second, especially in football. One injury can mean the end of a career. Players want multiple-year contracts to guarantee security. Higgins may have to decide between the most money and long-term security. The Bengals may not be able to offer the most money, but he would be a big part of the offense on a championship-contending team.
Tee Higgins is the first player to receive the franchise tag this offseason. Will the two sides be able to come to an agreement on a long-term deal?
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Matt has been following sports since he was a kid. While football is his primary focus, Matt can talk about any sport anytime. He is a banker in Wisconsin and hosts two podcasts, Beers and Ears & Discontinued on Display.
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