New Report Could Reignite Tee Higgins-Patriots Done deal

Recent developments have reignited discussions about wide receiver Tee Higgins potentially joining the New England Patriots. Despite earlier reports suggesting the Cincinnati Bengals intended to retain Higgins, new insights indicate that his future with the team remains uncertain.

 

In mid-February 2025, reports emerged that the Bengals planned to use the non-exclusive franchise tag on Higgins for the second consecutive year, aiming to prevent him from entering free agency. This move would secure Higgins for another season, but it also raised questions about the team’s long-term strategy, especially considering upcoming contract negotiations with other key players like quarterback Joe Burrow and wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase.

 

However, recent insights from NFL insiders suggest that the Bengals’ commitment to tagging Higgins might not be as firm as initially believed. Phil Perry of NBC Sports Boston reported that some league sources are skeptical about Cincinnati’s willingness to use the franchise tag on Higgins, citing the team’s defensive needs and salary cap considerations. Perry noted, “There are folks in the NFL who aren’t sure that even though the reporting is the Bengals plan to use the franchise tag on Tee Higgins… people are telling me they’ll believe it when they see it.”

 

This uncertainty has significant implications for the Patriots, who are in dire need of a premier wide receiver to complement their young quarterback, Drake Maye. With an estimated $128.69 million in salary cap space, New England is well-positioned to make a competitive offer should Higgins become available. The Athletic’s Chad Graff highlighted the Patriots’ potential interest, stating, “The Patriots are going to be all in on Tee Higgins… I expect them to offer him the moon.”

 

Higgins’ performance over the past four seasons underscores his value. Accumulating 257 receptions, 3,684 yards, and 24 touchdowns, he has consistently been a reliable target. In the 2024 season, he recorded 73 receptions for 911 yards and 10 touchdowns, further solidifying his reputation as a top-tier receiver.

 

As the NFL’s franchise tag window approaches its March 4 deadline, the situation remains fluid. Should the Bengals opt not to tag Higgins, the Patriots and other receiver-needy teams will have a prime opportunity to pursue him in free agency. This development could significantly impact New England’s offseason strategy, potentially providing Maye with a much-needed playmaker and revitalizing the Patriots’offense.