Cincinnati Bengals Wide Receiver Tee Higgins Unlikely to Receive Contract Extension
CINCINNATI — The Cincinnati Bengals have recently made headlines with a massive contract extension for their star quarterback, Joe Burrow. However, another key player on the team, wide receiver Tee Higgins, seems unlikely to receive a contract extension anytime soon.
Higgins, whose rookie deal expires at the end of this season, addressed the possibility of a contract extension during a recent interview. According to a source familiar with the situation, it appears unlikely that Higgins will sign a long-term deal this season.
When asked about the negotiations, Higgins admitted that he had no clue about the progress and whether a deal would be reached before the Bengals’ Week 1 game against the Cleveland Browns. He emphasized that his focus is on performing his best on the field and catching passes from Burrow.
The uncertainty surrounding Higgins’ contract extension comes on the heels of Burrow signing a five-year extension worth up to $275 million, with a staggering $219.1 million guaranteed. Despite dealing with a strained right calf, Burrow is expected to play in the season opener against the Browns.
It’s worth noting that Cincinnati exercised Burrow’s fifth-year option earlier this year, which means any new years on his contract won’t begin until 2025. This option is only available to first-round draft picks, and Burrow was taken first overall in 2020. On the other hand, Higgins was selected at the top of the second round in the same draft.
According to ESPN sources, there hasn’t been much movement in recent weeks regarding a potential extension for Higgins. The fourth-year receiver out of Clemson is set to count only $4 million against the salary cap in 2023.
This lack of progress contradicts earlier statements made by Cincinnati’s director of player personnel, Duke Tobin. During the NFL scouting combine, Tobin dismissed rumors of Higgins being on the trading block and emphasized his value to the Bengals’ franchise. He stated that Higgins was a “valued member” and that the trade speculation was unfounded.
Since entering the league, Higgins has been a consistent performer for the Bengals. In three seasons, he has recorded 215 catches for 3,028 receiving yards and 19 touchdowns. His yardage total ranks 15th among all players since the start of the 2020 season, according to ESPN Stats & Information research.
Higgins also made a significant impact in the Bengals’ Super Bowl LVI loss to the Los Angeles Rams in February 2022, catching both of the team’s offensive touchdowns. His fellow wide receiver, Tyler Boyd, expressed disappointment over the lack of a new deal for Higgins, calling him a valuable player who always delivers when called upon.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his contract situation, Higgins remains committed to playing and contributing to the team. He acknowledged that if he didn’t receive a new deal, he could understand why he might not suit up. However, as a competitor, he wants to play and also set himself up for future success.
As the Bengals prepare for their season opener, it seems unlikely that Higgins will receive a contract extension in the near future. The team’s focus appears to be on Burrow’s extension and potentially addressing other contract situations in the coming seasons. However, given Higgins’ talent and contributions to the team, it wouldn’t be surprising if negotiations resume at a later date.