Tee Higgins to Play Under Franchise Tag in 2024 NFL Season
Star wide receiver Tee Higgins is gearing up for the 2024 NFL season under the franchise tag after contract negotiations with the Cincinnati Bengals failed to yield a long-term extension before Monday's deadline. Securing a fully guaranteed $21.8 million this season, Higgins will bring his talent and dedication with him to training camp when veterans convene on July 23.
With tensions brewing in Cincinnati, Higgins had requested a trade in March, hoping to seek new opportunities. However, the Bengals opted not to acquiesce to his trade request, instead deciding to extend the franchise tag to ensure his continued presence on the team. "It was assumed he would be a top target of Burrow's for years to come," but the current circumstances may have altered this long-term vision.
The Bengals' decision to hold on to Higgins, despite the failed contract negotiations, puts them in a complex position. Meanwhile, they have solidified their commitment to star quarterback Joe Burrow, making him the highest-paid player in the NFL with a five-year, $275 million extension. This move undeniably showcases where the franchise's priorities lie.
For other NFL teams, Higgins represents a tempting asset. The New York Jets, Washington Commanders, New England Patriots, and Los Angeles Chargers all have varying amounts of cap space and potential interest in securing new talent. The New York Jets, with $6.254 million in cap space for the season, are one such team that might consider making a move for Higgins. Although their cap space isn't abundant, "they could get creative in their accounting for a Higgins extension by providing him with a massive signing bonus and backloading his contract to defer larger cap hits to future years."
The Washington Commanders boast a substantial $37 million in cap space, offering them more flexibility to consider such a high-caliber player. The New England Patriots are also in a strong financial position with $43.763 million in cap space. These teams have the monetary means to engage in potential trade talks if the opportunity arises during the season.
The Los Angeles Chargers, with $20.656 million in cap space this season, also present an interesting option for Higgins. Looking ahead, the Chargers are projected to have nearly $43 million in cap space by 2025, a factor that could influence their decision-making process as they strategize for long-term team building.
With Higgins on the roster under the franchise tag, the Bengals will need to navigate the season with a star receiver whose future with the team remains uncertain. The dynamics around Higgins not only affect Cincinnati but also capture the attention of other franchises evaluating their own strategies and cap situations. As one source noted, "A trade and contract for Higgins will most certainly cost less than trading for Adams," positioning Higgins as an appealing option should trade talks resume.
As the season progresses, the performance and contributions of Tee Higgins will undoubtedly be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. With the backdrop of a failed long-term extension and a trade request that didn't materialize, his journey through the 2024 NFL season under the franchise tag promises to be a storyline filled with intrigue and potential shifts in the NFL landscape.