Star wide receiver Tee Higgins will be playing out the 2024 NFL season under the franchise tag, following a collapse in long-term contract negotiations with the Cincinnati Bengals before Monday's deadline. The franchise tag guarantees Higgins a substantial $21.8 million for the season, but it leaves his long-term future with the Bengals clouded in uncertainty.
Despite the hefty payout, Higgins had hoped for a more secure, multi-year deal with the Bengals, who have instead made Joe Burrow the highest-paid player in the NFL with a five-year, $275 million extension. This makes Burrow's future with the team certain, but it leaves questions about Higgins' tenure in Cincinnati. The wide receiver, who requested a trade in March, was denied his wish, adding another layer of complexity to his current situation.
Training Camp and Season Outlook
Higgins will report to training camp on July 23 when veterans gather, ready to contribute to the Bengals' upcoming season. Despite the off-field negotiations and trade requests, his presence on the field is crucial. It was assumed he would be a top target of Burrow's for years to come, a testament to Higgins' profound impact on the offense.
With an eye towards the end of the season, the dynamics of Higgins' possible trade and the resulting contract are under scrutiny. Many believe that a trade and contract for Higgins will most certainly cost less than trading for other top-tier receivers like Adams, making him an attractive option for teams in need of a reliable wide receiver.
Potential Suitors and Cap Space
Several teams, such as the New York Jets, Washington Commanders, New England Patriots, and Los Angeles Chargers, have been mentioned as potential suitors given their cap space conditions. However, the Jets, with $6.254 million in cap space, would have to get creative in their accounting for a Higgins extension. A plausible strategy could involve offering him a massive signing bonus and backloading his contract to defer larger cap hits to future years. Nevertheless, the Jets don't have much room left to maneuver, making a trade less likely compared to other teams with more cap flexibility.
The Washington Commanders are in a better financial position with $37 million in cap space, offering them ample room to maneuver a significant signing should they pursue Higgins. Similarly, the New England Patriots boast $43.763 million in available cap space, positioning them as one of the more viable options. The Los Angeles Chargers also present a feasible scenario with $20.656 million available this season and a projection of nearly $43 million in cap space by 2025.
Final Thoughts
The developments around Tee Higgins illustrate the high-stakes maneuvers and strategic decisions prevalent within the NFL. As the season approaches, all eyes will be on how the dynamic between Higgins and the Bengals unfolds, especially considering his request for a trade and the lucrative, albeit temporary, guarantee under the franchise tag. Teams across the league will be watching closely, evaluating their own cap situations and weighing the benefits of potentially adding a talent like Higgins to their rosters.