The Cincinnati Bengals are standing firm on their commitment to keeping Tee Higgins in the fold, despite swirling rumors of a potential trade. Higgins, alongside fellow standout Ja’Marr Chase, forms a formidable duo that promises to bolster quarterback Joe Burrow’s arsenal as he returns from a season-ending injury.
The team has asserted that they “have no plans” to part ways with their star wide receiver, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler.
The #Bengals have made clear behind the scenes they have no plans to trade Higgins. Want another run at a Super Bowl with Ja’Marr Chase and Higgins on the outside. https://t.co/hJzOCHdrjn
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) April 14, 2024
Burrow’s prospects of leading the Bengals back to Super Bowl contention are notably enhanced with these two exceptional talents to target downfield. The signal-caller expressed his desire to keep Higgins on the team for the upcoming season. Even Higgins himself expressed his desire to stay with Cincy in the upcoming season.
The 2023 season presented challenges for Higgins on the field, marked by a series of injuries that sidelined him for a total of five games. Now, the player is gearing up to deliver his best in the upcoming season and expressed so recently.
Tee Higgins expects playing for Bengals next season
Tee Higgins conveyed his growing affection for Cincinnati and his anticipation for the future with the Bengals squad on Sunday at a youth football camp.
“I do anticipate it. I’ve grown a love for Cincy that I didn’t think I would, but, you know, man, looking forward to it,” Higgins said.
New @WLWT: Tee Higgins says he does anticipate playing for the Bengals in 2024. pic.twitter.com/kMh0Lar8Ws
— Charlie Clifford (@char_cliff) April 14, 2024
Higgins indeed expressed his eagerness to remain in Cincinnati, but he also highlighted the importance of a long-term commitment from the team. The WR is currently under the franchise tag for the 2024 season. The tag offers him $21.816 million, and he aims for a more enduring agreement.
The Bengals aimed to secure the star receiver’s services by placing the franchise tag on him in February. But he initially sought a trade by March 11. He has a market value estimated at $18.6 million per year. Higgins now sees a strong performance in the upcoming season as crucial in potentially negotiating a more favorable contract before entering free agency next year.
