Tee Higgins drops a telling message amid Bengals contract buzz

Tee Higgins, 26, formed a part of the Bengals’ deadly trio including Quarterback Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase.

Tee Higgins drops a telling message amid Bengals contract buzz

Tee Higgins (image via AP News)

Amid contract extension saga, Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins sent a subtle yet powerful message through social media. On Monday, Higgins posted a series of gym workout photos on Instagram, signaling his unwavering focus amid reports of a lucrative new deal.

The post comes as speculation intensifies over the Cincinnati Bengals’ efforts to lock down Higgins and fellow star receiver Ja’Marr Chase with long-term extensions. According to James Rapien of Bengals Talk, both contracts are essentially “done,” a development that could significantly impact Cincinnati’s salary cap management.

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Amid the whole camaraderie, Higgins’ Instagram post suggests his priorities remain unchanged—his game and his grind. “Work doesn’t stop,” Tee Higgins captioned his Instagram post.

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The Tennessee native has been a crucial weapon for quarterback Joe Burrow, as he faces a major point in his career. The Cincinnati Bengals came close to a playoff before the Denver Broncos shut out the Kansas City Chiefs in the final game and advanced as the third wildcard team.

Higgins, 26, was set to play the 2025 season under a $26.1 million franchise tag, while Chase’s fifth-year option carried a $21.8 million cap hit. By finalizing their extensions, the Bengals could free up considerable cap space to address key areas, including the offensive line and defense.

The franchise remained relatively quiet during free agency, but securing its top receiving duo could provide the boost needed for a deep playoff run. While fans await official confirmation from the team, Higgins’ message was clear: contract talks won’t distract him from the work that got him here.

Tee Higgins is still a viable option associated with the New England Patriots

Despite recent reports indicating that the Cincinnati Bengals are finalizing contract extensions for star wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, the New England Patriots could still pursue Higgins.

Tee Higgins
Cincinnati Bengals placed a second consecutive franchise tag on Tee Higgins (Image via NFL/X)

Tee Higgins has consistently expressed a desire to be the primary receiving option, a role currently occupied by Chase in Cincinnati. Accepting a secondary position may not align with his career aspirations. This sentiment raises questions about his long-term satisfaction with the Bengals.

The Patriots have the financial flexibility to offer Higgins a more lucrative contract, potentially positioning him among the top five highest-paid receivers in the NFL. Higgins’ extension is expected to be between $25-30 million per year. This disparity could be perceived as undervaluing his contributions, especially when compared to other receivers like DK Metcalf, who secured $30 million annually.

The Patriots are set to receive a more than solid young player if they continue forward with the deal. The Patriots are actively seeking to enhance their receiving unit. Integrating a talent like Higgins would provide quarterback Drake Maye with a dynamic and reliable target. The unavailability of such receivers had been a critical aspect that made the game difficult for Maye.

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