As of Tuesday, February 18, news broke that the Cincinnati Bengals are expected to franchise tag star wide receiver for the second year in a row.
This was not the news anticipated by Patriots fans heading into the offseason.
26-year-old Tee Higgins has seemed to be the top target for the Patriots in free agency this year and last year. In five seasons, Higgins has posted over 1,000 yards twice while battling injuries and playing alongside superstar wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase.
That, along with the film he puts out, makes Higgins an ideal number-one target for young quarterback Drake Maye.
PHOTO: @thatmattsharpe/InstagramFor fans, this news may discourage some from the idea of Higgins realistically becoming a Patriot. To that, I say, ‘It is not over just yet.’ A day after the news broke on Higgins, reports came out from Jordan Schultz that superstar wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase will command at least $40M annually. The good news is that the Bengals only have $53M in cap space. It’s hard to see Higgins play on the franchise tag for the second straight year, considering signs have shown he is seeking a long-term deal. Especially considering the franchise tag is right around $26M, and Higgins’ market value seems to be north of $30M.
Realistically, it is not likely that Tee Higgins will hit the open market.
That said, the team could be forced to trade him if no long-term deal is reached and he is unwilling to play without an extension. For fans, Higgins to New England will not be out of play until the extension is signed, sealed, and delivered.
The Patriots must upgrade their WR room quickly for the sake of Drake Maye. After the offensive and defensive lines, this position should be second on the priority list. Currently, the team does not have a single player who has eclipsed 1,000 receiving yards. In the current era of the National Football League, playmakers are essential.
Patriots fans, do not give up on Tee Higgins becoming a Patriot just yet…
PHOTO: @thatmattsharpe/Instagram
