Cincinnati’s Tee Higgins has become a focal point. Fans worry he may be too expensive to keep. With Burrow’s huge contract, will Higgins find a new home?
Bengals receivers coach Troy Walters reached out to Higgins. He wanted clarity amid offseason uncertainty. Would the star player hold out if a deal fell through?
At that moment, Higgins was enjoying golf in sunny Miami. He assured Walters he’d accept the franchise tag. If no long-term deal emerged, he’d give his all.
And he has delivered, despite a tough season for Cincinnati. Higgins averages a career-high 79.7 yards. He has five touchdowns, two shy of his best. He’s currently on a scoring streak.
Yet rumors swirl around his health. Critics question if he’s faking injuries for leverage. Such accusations have stung, especially for a player focused on success.
“I don’t understand the skepticism, especially now,” he said. Injured or not, Higgins dismissed such claims.
Interestingly, Higgins has tales of losing opportunities. He missed games earlier this season due to soft-tissue injuries. Those injuries have annoyed him greatly and derailed his plans for a bigger paycheck.
This offseason, Higgins plans an in-depth study of his injuries. He wants to avoid future setbacks. He’s learning from peers, like Packers’ Christian Watson.
In past years, he aimed to secure a major extension. Since joining the Bengals, he’s been a key player. His career stats are impressive, but he needs more.
Higgins ranks fourth among 2020 draft class receivers. But others have secured big contracts. Players like Justin Jefferson and CeeDee Lamb have set the market.
The franchise tag this year is worth $21.8 million. But will that be enough to keep him in Cincinnati long-term?
Ja’Marr Chase, another star receiver, also seeks a big deal. Chase being in negotiations complicates matters for Higgins.
“I had to try for a deal,” Higgins reflected. But he understood the Bengals’ stance. Holding out wasn’t something he envisioned.
With a rich history in football, he prefers being on the field. “I need to connect with my teammates,” he reiterated.
While Chase engaged in contract thoughts, Higgins stayed focused. He trained hard, readying himself for his fifth season.
Walters regularly checked on Higgins. He emphasized the need for practice reps before the season started.
Higgins responded positively. He attended every day of training camp. His focus was clear: perform well and let results speak.
He delivered standout performances, particularly against the Giants. Catching all targets, his influence was unmistakable.
Higgins also stepped up in critical moments versus the Browns. His dependability in tight situations shone through.
Offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher praised Higgins’ contributions. “We trust him entirely,” he said. “His calm demeanor is vital.”
However, the road hasn’t been smooth for Higgins. A quadriceps injury sidelined him against the Eagles.
Sifting through his bag, he pulled a book. It was titled “Experiencing God,” recommended by Walters. Their discussions deeply impacted him.
“It has changed my outlook on daily life,” Higgins admitted. He feels renewed enthusiasm every day.
He contrasts this year to last. “I didn’t feel this way before,” he added.
Statistically, he has improved. This season, his catch rate has soared to 64.2%. His drop rate has fallen to 4.5%.
Higgins acknowledges he can enhance his game. But his vision remains clear: focus on winning.
“I’m not chasing perfection for contracts,” Higgins stated. His heart lies with helping the Bengals succeed.
As speculation about his future swirls, Higgins remains grounded. He values camaraderie and the game above all.
Yet, what will happen as contract talks loom? Will the Bengals keep Higgins, or could he be headed elsewhere?
In an increasingly competitive landscape, players like Higgins are pivotal. The NFL always redefines “star.” Keeping talents like him is crucial to a team’s growth.
