Big-name pass-catcher Tee Higgins is most likely on the trade block this offseason out of other receivers that could be on there. The “Make-or-Break” candidate has been in numerous trade rumors this year as the Bengals look to be at a crossroads. Higgins is the only player on the roster that hasn’t been able to agree on a new contract. He’s been one of the hottest receivers that could become available but the Bengals have until July 15 to change that.
The good news is that the Bengals were able to franchise tag the wideout but it doesn’t mean he will play this season. He says he will but Higgins would be foolish for a year knowing the team probably won’t give him the contract he wants. Out of Brandon Aiyuk, Deebo Samuel and Courtland Sutton, Higgins hasn’t been in talks with the team at all for negotiation or a contract. No one should look at the stats he put up with the Bengals last season since they were without star quarterback Joe Burrow for the rest of the year.
Everything is on the line for the Bengals to make a move to keep Higgins around as Burrow’s favorite target. However, Ja’Marr Chase is still looking for a deal and he isn’t willing to take a pay cut to keep Higgins on the roster. The Bengals are in a similar scenario as the 49ers in regards to long-term plans so time is ticking for both of these teams. Chase is due for a massive pay raise after establishing himself as one of the best receivers to exist in the league.
However, the team wants to keep Higgins to continue to build the chemistry. Lots of sacrifices will be made this offseason.
Big Name Pass-Catcher Tee Higgins “Most Likely” on Trade Block
He May Be In New Uniform
It sounds like Higgins wants to be next line to get the contract that he wants. One shocking scenario that may likely happen is if they decide to pay Chase instead since he’s early in his rookie deal. It may be logical for them to do it this offseason considering the market keeps resetting by Amon-Ra St. Brown and Justin Jefferson. However, the Bengals are playing a huge risk if they think they’re retaining Higgins next offseason after playing on a franchise tag.
The likelihood is that he’ll be in a new uniform as soon as next year. They may as well start putting him on the trade block before they lose out on the opportunity to do so. According to a source, a fan asked Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer which receiver is “most likely” to get traded this offseason. Several high-profile wideouts are on the radar but he responds that Higgins is likely the target.
It seems like the Bengals could have their eyes set on Chase to be their long-term receiver. However, the thought of the team moving on from Higgins would be hard, especially for a team that was in the Super Bowl before. Here are some potential trade fits for Higgins.
Potential Trade Fits for Higgins
The Chargers are still looking for a big-time receiver since their departures of Mike Williams and Keenan Allen. If Jim Harbaugh wants to rebuild a promising offense for Justin Herbert then they should make this splash trade happen. DJ Chark, Quentin Johnson and Josh Palmer don’t bring a lot of promise for a team that’s looking to be playoff contenders. It’s hard to imagine seeing the Chargers running an offense with plenty of unproven weapons.
The Chiefs sound like a nice destination for Higgins to finally re-establish himself as the No. 1 receiver under a new offensive system. He isn’t getting that with the Bengals and the Chiefs are struggling to find one so they may as well make it happen. Rashee Rice will miss some games this season and Kadarius Toney may be a cut candidate so it’s only right to give Patrick Mahomes new weapons.
However, Lamar Jackson needs a reliable slot receiver to help Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman. They were able to extend Bateman but he had a disappointing campaign last year. The loss of Odell Beckham Jr. reflects they need some type of veteran insurance to keep this offense stable.
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