Indianapolis, Indiana – Cincinnati Bengals executive Duke Tobin acknowledged the importance of wide receiver Tee Higgins to the team’s roster during a press conference at the NFL scouting combine on Tuesday.
Tobin’s comments came after the Bengals officially placed the franchise tag on Higgins for the upcoming season. This move guarantees Higgins a one-year deal worth $21.8 million, solidifying his presence on the team for the time being.
While Tobin expressed the team’s desire to keep Higgins, he also left room for speculation by mentioning the uncertainty surrounding players on one-year contracts. This contrasts with his previous statements in 2023 dismissing trade rumors involving Higgins.
With Higgins’ franchise tag in place, Bengals coach Zac Taylor emphasized the business side of the decision, highlighting the importance of open communication with the player despite the contract negotiations.
Throughout his tenure with the Bengals, Higgins has proven to be a key playmaker, racking up impressive stats over the seasons. Despite facing injuries in the past year, he remains a valuable asset to the team’s offense.
As the Bengals continue to solidify their roster for the upcoming season, the future of Higgins and his role within the team remains a focal point of discussion among fans and analysts. The franchise’s decision to franchise tag him sets the tone for the team’s direction moving forward.