The Cincinnati Bengals are navigating numerous contract situations, with more high-profile players on their roster than ever before. Among the most challenging decisions revolves around Tee Higgins, the team’s second-round pick from the 2020 NFL Draft.
Higgins has emerged as one of the NFL’s top receivers and is seeking a contract that reflects his performance. However, with other key players like Ja’Marr Chase to consider in their salary cap management, the Bengals used the franchise tag on Higgins and have yet to agree on a long-term deal.
A similar situation previously occurred with star safety Jessie Bates, a fan favorite who played under the franchise tag in 2022 before signing with the Atlanta Falcons last season. Bates offered his perspective on Higgins’ predicament:
“I’ve been through that process with the franchise tag, and I let it weigh on me more than I should have, affecting my play and daily life. My advice for Tee is to focus on your craft. It doesn’t matter if this is the contract year. Every year is a contract year. Go out there, ball out, and train like it’s your last year to play,” Bates said.
Currently, the tension is rising as Higgins remains ineligible for OTAs since he hasn’t signed the franchise tender. The uncertainty about his future looms, making Bates’ advice potentially valuable for the star receiver.
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