Report sheds light on Bengals, Tee Higgins contract talks

The Bengals and Tee Higgins have yet to agree on a new contract, as Cincinnati decided to franchise-tag the star wideout in March before the start of free agency. If no agreement is reached by July 15, Higgins will make $21.8 million next season.

Kelsey Conway of the Cincinnati Enquirer reported an update on the contract talks between both sides. According to Conway, Higgins wanted a payday similar to Colts WR Michael Pittman.

Pittman signed a three-year, $70 million deal, making $23 million annually. Despite Higgins' demands, the Bengals and Higgins never reached the $20 million a year mark, according to the report, and guaranteed money was not discussed.

Conway adds that despite reports, Higgins never demanded to be the highest-paid receiver in the league, and he had no specific amount of guaranteed money in mind when discussing a future contract.

Frustration from Higgins' side boiled over, and he has now requested a trade twice, most recently a week ago at the same time as teammate Trey Hendrickson, who also requested a trade over contract disagreements.

Higgins accounted for 42 receptions, 656 yards, and five touchdowns in 2023, missing five games last season with an injury. His best season came in 2022 when he had 1,029 yards and seven touchdowns.

The Bengals will also be in contract discussions with Ja’Marr Chase as well this offseason. The star receiver is looking to become the highest-paid wideout in the NFL.