Tee Higgins Secures Long-Term Future with Bengals in Massive Contract Extension
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins has finally reached an agreement on a lucrative contract extension, securing his place in the Queen City for the foreseeable future. After years of anticipation and negotiation, Higgins and the Bengals have agreed to terms on a four-year, $115 million contract. This deal, slated to make him the fifth-highest-paid wide receiver in the NFL in 2025, represents a significant investment by the Bengals in their dynamic offensive core.
News of the impending extension began to surface earlier in the week, with NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport reporting on Friday that both Higgins and fellow star wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase were nearing monumental deals. The reports proved accurate as Chase also inked his own record-breaking contract, solidifying his status as the highest-paid non-quarterback in the league. The simultaneous extensions demonstrate the Bengals’ commitment to maintaining their potent passing attack, spearheaded by quarterback Joe Burrow.
The road to this agreement for Higgins wasn’t without its challenges. Earlier this month, the two sides failed to reach a deal before the franchise tag deadline. This outcome left Higgins poised to play under the franchise tag for a second consecutive year in 2025. However, the impasse ultimately paved the way for a more substantial, long-term commitment.
The new contract effectively avoids the franchise tag scenario for Higgins. He is now scheduled to earn $28.75 million in 2025, representing a $2.55 million increase over the franchise tag value. More importantly, this extension guarantees Higgins’s presence in Cincinnati for the next four years, providing stability and continuity to the Bengals’ offense.
Details of the contract structure reveal that the first two years are fully guaranteed for Higgins, offering him financial security and peace of mind. Furthermore, reports suggest the deal could potentially reach over $30 million per year with the inclusion of incentives. These incentives likely tie into performance-based metrics, such as receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns, rewarding Higgins for his on-field contributions.
Since being drafted by the Bengals in 2020, Higgins has consistently proven himself as a reliable and productive target. Over his five seasons with the team, he has amassed an impressive 330 receptions for 4,595 receiving yards and 34 touchdowns. His combination of size, speed, and sure hands makes him a formidable weapon in the Bengals’ arsenal.
Despite battling injuries in the 2024 season, Higgins still managed to make a significant impact. He missed five games due to hamstring, quad, and ankle issues, but he still managed to compile 911 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns on 73 receptions. His resilience and ability to produce even while dealing with physical setbacks highlight his dedication and value to the team.
The extension for Higgins, combined with Chase’s record-breaking deal, showcases the Bengals’ unwavering commitment to their offensive stars. By securing the long-term services of both Higgins and Chase, the team aims to create a sustained period of success and competitiveness in the AFC. These investments demonstrate the Bengals’ belief in their offensive core’s ability to lead the team to Super Bowl contention.
With these significant financial commitments, the Bengals’ salary cap situation becomes a key area of focus. According to Overthecap.com, the Bengals currently have $26.8 million in available cap space for the 2025 league year. The team will need to strategically manage its cap space to ensure they can continue to build a well-rounded roster around their star offensive players. Future contract negotiations and player acquisitions will require careful consideration to maintain financial flexibility.
The Bengals are coming off a 2024 season where they narrowly missed the playoffs with a 9-8 record. The team is determined to build upon that foundation and make a deeper postseason run in the upcoming years. With the core of their offense secured for the long term, the Bengals will look to address other areas of need through the draft and free agency.
Looking ahead, the Bengals hold the No. 17 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. This selection provides them with an opportunity to add a talented young player who can contribute to the team’s success. The Bengals will likely consider a variety of positions with their first-round pick, including offensive line, defensive line, and potentially even a cornerback. The draft will be crucial in supplementing the team’s strengths and addressing any weaknesses on the roster.
The contract extension for Tee Higgins marks a significant moment for both the player and the Bengals organization. It represents a culmination of years of hard work and negotiation, and it signifies the Bengals’ commitment to building a championship-caliber team. With Higgins and Chase locked in for the foreseeable future, the Bengals’ offense is poised to be a force to be reckoned with in the NFL for years to come. The team and its fans are eager to see what the future holds as they strive to achieve their ultimate goal of winning a Super Bowl.
