Tee Higgins is poised to play one more season with the Cincinnati Bengals. The Bengals and Higgins couldn’t agree to a contract extension that would have kept the former Clemson standout a member of the team. Earlier this offseason, Higgins signed a franchise tag worth over $21 million, so there’s no doubt where he’ll play in 2024.
In 2025, there’s more than a little bit now. Next March, a top-quality wide receiver will be hitting the open market. More than several teams will likely be in on Higgins when he hits free agency next year. Several months ahead of that, let’s discuss a few potential landing spots.
Buffalo Bills
One of Cincinnati’s biggest foes in the AFC could be a threat to sign Tee Higgins next year. The Buffalo Bills saw Stefon Diggs and Gabe Davis exit the team this past offseason. Buffalo drafted Keon Coleman to replace some of that production, but Buffalo may need more. The good news for the Bills is that they’re projected to be under the salary cap next offseason. A series of potential cap-clearing moves could put them under even their current projection of around $9 million. Should that happen, Buffalo could be a significant player for Higgins and give Josh Allen yet another talented receiver to work with.
New England Patriots
Staying in the AFC East, the New England Patriots could also be suitors for Tee Higgins. The Patriots are in full rebuild mode, so the team may look to sign a veteran impact player. Their receiver room would gain a much-needed boost from bringing in a talented player like Higgins. The Patriots likely won’t have any salary cap issues next season, which could open up the door. New England didn’t always chase after players while Tom Brady was around. That era is over, so we’ll see if things shake out differently.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Longtime AFC rival Pittsburgh could be a threat to take Tee Higgins away from Cincinnati. But the Steelers’ status would likely hinge on them falling out on another talented wide receiver. San Francisco 49ers star Brandon Aiyuk has been the subject of trade rumors all offseason. The Steelers have been linked to the former Arizona State wide receiver. Whether San Francisco pulls the trigger is one thing, but it’s clear the Steelers are willing to shell it out for a receiver. If they strike out on Aiyuk, they could hit their rival where it hurts next March.
Tennessee Titans
Another AFC squad that could potentially do damage by signing Tee Higgins is Tennessee. The Titans will be well under the projected 2025 salary cap, so signing a player like Higgins won’t be difficult. Second-year quarterback Will Levis will have Treylon Burks and DeAndre Hopkins to throw to again this season. But like Buffalo, Tennessee may need more to get back on its feet. Higgins makes almost too much sense, as he’s a state native who was initially committed to the University of Tennessee. It would be a homecoming and a potential story to watch.
Washington Commanders
The Washington Commanders are also in on Brandon Aiyuk, making them a potential landing spot for Tee Higgins. If the Commanders stroke out, they could go for Higgins to pair with Terry McLaurin. Washington needs a facelift, and the team badly needs a new identity. They hope that Jayden Daniels will be part of the solution. They will need more talent to reach that solution, so signing Higgins would be a strong move for the budding Commanders.
