Tee Higgins Ends Holdout, Signs Franchise Tender, Rejoining Bengals for Training Camp
The Cincinnati Bengals‘ offseason drama surrounding star wide receiver Tee Higgins has finally reached a resolution. After missing the team’s entire Organized Team Activities (OTAs) program, Higgins reportedly signed his one-year franchise tender on [date], paving the way for his participation in training camp. This article dives into the details of this agreement, explores the potential implications for both Higgins and the Bengals organization, and analyzes how it might impact the upcoming season. Ian Rapoport tweeted to break this story with fans https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1802004657796989096
A Franchise Tag and Trade Request:
Following a breakout 2021 season, Higgins received the franchise tag from the Bengals in February 2024. This designation guarantees him a one-year contract worth roughly $21.8 million, the average salary of the top five highest-paid wide receivers in the league. However, the franchise tag doesn’t necessarily translate to long-term security for a player. Higgins, reportedly seeking a lucrative long-term deal, expressed his desire for a trade soon after receiving the tag.
Missed OTAs and Training Camp Speculation:
Higgins’ absence from OTAs fueled speculation about a potential training camp holdout as well. Missing these crucial offseason sessions can hinder a player’s ability to build chemistry with his teammates and learn the nuances of a new offensive scheme (if applicable). This raised concerns for the Bengals, who rely heavily on Higgins’ playmaking ability alongside quarterback Joe Burrow.
Signing the Tender: A Temporary Truce?
By signing the franchise tender, Higgins secures his guaranteed salary for the 2024 season. This provides some financial security while negotiations for a potential long-term contract continue. While his presence at training camp signifies a positive step, the underlying issue of a long-term deal remains unresolved.
Under the tag, Higgins is expected to make $21.8 million this season. Up to July 15, he and the Bengals can still negotiate a long-term contract, though it doesn’t appear likely.
Higgins, a Clemson product and 2020 second-round selection, has been a crucial component of Cincinnati’s attack. Higgins has amassed 3,684 receiving yards and 24 touchdowns in his first four seasons.
Higgins suffered hamstring and rib issues last year, which hindered him. With 42 receptions for 656 yards and five touchdowns, he appeared in 12 games.
Impact on Tee Higgins:
- Loss of Valuable Reps: Missing OTAs could put Higgins at a slight disadvantage initially. He’ll need to ramp up quickly in training camp to regain timing and chemistry with Burrow.
- Potential for Injury: Coming into camp without participating in offseason drills slightly increases the risk of injury as Higgins adjusts to the physical demands of the season.
- Contract Negotiations: Signing the tender doesn’t guarantee a long-term deal. Higgins’ performance throughout the season and his willingness to negotiate will be key factors in securing a lucrative contract extension.
Impact on the Bengals Organization:
- Continuity on Offense: Tee Higgins’ presence bolsters the Bengals’ receiving corps, providing a reliable target alongside Ja’Marr Chase.
- Team Chemistry: Having a key offensive weapon back in the fold helps build team morale and allows the offense to operate at full capacity.
- Contract Negotiations: The Bengals will need to navigate potential contract negotiations with Higgins while also considering extensions for other key players in the coming years.
Looking Ahead: A Season of Opportunity
With the franchise tender signed and training camp on the horizon, the focus shifts to the upcoming season. For Higgins, a strong 2024 campaign could solidify his value and strengthen his bargaining position for a long-term deal. For the Bengals, a healthy and productive Higgins is crucial to their Super Bowl aspirations. While the long-term contract situation remains unresolved, both parties have a common goal: success on the field.
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