Bengals’ GM makes a’shocking’ statement as he addresses Tee Higgins contract status…

Bengals’ Tobin addresses Tee Higgins contract status…

Cincinnati Bengals’ Director of Personnel, Duke Tobin, addressed several topics during the Senior Bowl, shedding light on the status of wide receiver Tee Higgins and his future with the team, as reported by the Cincinnati Enquirer. At 25, Higgins is currently without a contract, as negotiations for a long-term deal between him and the Bengals failed before the 2023 season commenced. The lack of progress on an extension was evident last offseason, according to a source close to the situation, revealing a disconnect between the player and the franchise.

Tobin’s comments on Higgins during the previous year’s NFL scouting combine garnered attention when he emphasized the team’s reluctance to trade the receiver for future draft picks. However, the dynamic has shifted this year due to Higgins’ altered contract status. Tobin acknowledged the change in a recent statement, stating that since Higgins is no longer under contract, the team must navigate through the process of determining how to secure his future with the Bengals. Unlike the previous year, Tobin emphasized that trading a high-level player under contract solely based on future considerations is not a priority.

Looking ahead, the Bengals face three options regarding Higgins. They can either place the franchise tag on him, retaining his services for one more season at a cost exceeding $20 million, tag him and subsequently trade him to acquire draft picks, or allow him to enter free agency. The decision on whether to employ the franchise tag must be made between February 20 and March 5. Tobin expressed the team’s desire to keep Higgins, acknowledging that everyone on the roster shares the sentiment. However, the financial considerations come into play, with Tobin recognizing the need to balance the desire to retain Higgins with the constraints imposed by the team’s budget.

In summary, the contractual uncertainty surrounding Tee Higgins has prompted the Bengals to assess their options carefully. The franchise must decide whether to secure his services through the franchise tag, entertain a trade, or allow him to explore free agency. The upcoming weeks will be crucial in determining the course of action, with financial considerations playing a significant role in the decision-making process.