NFL Analysts Debate Whether Tee Higgins Would Leave Joe Burrow
The question of whether Tee Higgins, the standout wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals, could part ways with his quarterback Joe Burrow in the near future has become a hot topic among NFL analysts. Higgins, who has been a key weapon in the Bengals’ explosive offense, has developed undeniable chemistry with Burrow since joining the team in 2020. But as Higgins nears the end of his rookie contract, many are wondering if the Bengals will be able to keep their dynamic duo together long term.
The Situation: Higgins and His Contract Status
Tee Higgins is entering the final year of his four-year rookie contract, which means the Bengals will have to decide whether to extend him or risk letting him test free agency. The 24-year-old receiver has already established himself as one of the top wideouts in the league, with impressive stats and consistent production. He is an ideal complement to Ja’Marr Chase, and together, they form one of the most formidable receiving duos in the NFL.
However, the Bengals’ financial situation is complicated by the fact that Joe Burrow, the franchise’s star quarterback, will soon need a massive contract extension of his own. Burrow, who is entering the final year of his rookie contract as well, is widely expected to receive one of the richest quarterback contracts in NFL history. With the salary cap always a factor, questions arise as to whether the Bengals can afford to keep both Burrow and Higgins on long-term deals.
Analysts Weigh In: Will Higgins Stay or Go?
Several analysts have weighed in on the potential outcomes for Higgins, with opinions varying on whether he will remain with Burrow in Cincinnati or end up elsewhere.
1. Tee Higgins’ Value on the Open Market
One of the main points analysts discuss is Higgins’ value on the open market. After putting together impressive seasons as a reliable target for Burrow, including over 1,000 receiving yards in each of the last two seasons, Higgins has positioned himself for a significant payday. Wide receivers have been securing big contracts in recent years, with Davante Adams and Tyreek Hill setting new benchmarks for what top-tier players at the position can demand.
Given the rising value of the wide receiver market, Higgins could potentially receive offers from other teams that may be willing to pay him more than the Bengals can afford. Analysts point to teams with a need for a number-one receiver and cap space to accommodate such a contract, such as the Chicago Bears, New York Giants, or Minnesota Vikings.
2. Bengals’ Financial Challenges: Can They Keep Both Burrow and Higgins?
The Bengals have historically been a team that hasn’t spent as freely as other franchises, and many analysts believe that it will be difficult for Cincinnati to hold on to both Burrow and Higgins long term, especially when factoring in the need to extend Ja’Marr Chase in a few years. Burrow’s impending contract extension, which could exceed $250 million, will take up a significant portion of the team’s salary cap, leaving the Bengals in a position where they may need to make tough decisions.
Analysts point out that while the Bengals have a strong roster overall, their willingness to invest in key players—particularly on the defensive side of the ball—may take a hit if they’re paying Burrow and Higgins max contracts. As a result, there is speculation that Higgins could be allowed to walk in free agency if the Bengals are unable to offer him a competitive contract.
3. Will the Bengals Choose to Trade Higgins Instead?
A middle-ground solution that some analysts propose is the possibility of the Bengals trading Higgins. While this is far from ideal for fans, it’s a decision that could be made if the team realizes they can’t retain him and don’t want to risk losing him for nothing in free agency. Teams looking to add a top-tier wide receiver for their stretch run—such as contenders with a window closing—might be willing to give up significant draft capital to acquire a player like Higgins.
4. Can Burrow’s Influence Keep Higgins in Cincinnati?
While many analysts suggest financial concerns might ultimately drive Higgins away, there’s another factor that could keep him in Cincinnati: Joe Burrow. Burrow, who is widely regarded as one of the top quarterbacks in the league, has a close relationship with Higgins both on and off the field. The two have shown incredible chemistry, with Higgins often being a go-to target in key moments during games.
Some analysts believe that Burrow’s leadership could play a crucial role in convincing Higgins to stay, especially if the Bengals can find ways to manage their finances in the coming seasons. If Burrow makes it clear that he wants to keep the core of the team intact and is willing to take on some of the cap load to make it work, Higgins may be more inclined to take a slightly less lucrative deal in order to stay with his quarterback and compete for championships.
5. Will Higgins’ Desire to Be a #1 Receiver Factor into His Decision?
Another factor that could influence Higgins’ future is his desire to be a number-one receiver. While he’s an excellent second option behind Ja’Marr Chase in Cincinnati, Higgins is undoubtedly capable of being a top target on most NFL teams. Analysts speculate that Higgins may want to carve out a more prominent role elsewhere, especially if it means he can secure a larger contract and potentially become the focal point of an offense. If that is the case, he could be more likely to leave Cincinnati for a team that offers him the chance to be the primary wideout.
The Future: Can the Bengals Keep Their Core Together?
In the end, the future of Tee Higgins with Joe Burrow and the Cincinnati Bengals is uncertain. The financial realities of the NFL and the significant investments that both Burrow and Chase will demand could create challenges for the team’s front office. However, the Bengals have proven in recent years that they are willing to do what it takes to build a competitive team. Whether or not Higgins will remain in Cincinnati will likely depend on how the team approaches its long-term financial commitments and whether they can strike a balance between paying their superstar quarterback and keeping key weapons like Higgins around.
At the same time, Tee Higgins has proven he’s more than capable of thriving in a number-one role on any team. His talent and work ethic make him one of the most coveted wide receivers in the league, and regardless of where he plays next, there’s little doubt that Higgins will continue to be a key contributor wherever he lands.
For now, NFL analysts will continue to debate whether Tee Higgins will stay or go, but one thing is for certain: his future is bright, and whichever team secures his services will be getting a game-changing wide receiver.