Cincinnati Bengals projected to Make Bold Move: Star WR Tee Higgins Traded to AFC Rival in Blockbuster Deal
Cincinnati Bengals' star wide receiver, Tee Higgins, has found himself at the center of trade rumors as he enters the final year of his rookie contract. The Bengals' management, led by Mike Brown, has a challenging choice ahead as they must navigate contract negotiations with not only Higgins but also fellow star wideout Ja'Marr Chase and franchise quarterback Joe Burrow.
With the expectation that Burrow will command a top-tier contract, and Chase likely following suit, the Bengals face a financial conundrum. Keeping all three offensive stars may prove difficult within the salary cap constraints while still assembling a competitive team.
Bleacher Report's Alex Ballentine presented trade suggestions for all 32 teams ahead of the 2023 regular season. One intriguing proposition involves the New England Patriots, who could potentially acquire Cincinnati's big-bodied receiver to bolster their offense.
Given the Patriots' struggle to find a clear-cut No. 1 receiver since Julian Edelman's departure in 2019, adding a player of Higgins' caliber could be a game-changer. The move would provide Mac Jones, their young quarterback, with a legitimate No. 1 target and the chance to showcase his abilities as a franchise quarterback.
Higgins has consistently impressed with over 1,000 receiving yards in each of the last two seasons, and he demonstrated his potential as a rookie with 908 receiving yards in 2020. Last season, the 24-year-old hauled in 74 passes for 1,029 receiving yards and seven touchdowns.
As the trade talks unfold, the Bengals face tough decisions about Higgins' future. The team must weigh the potential benefits of keeping him for a championship run against the risk of losing him in 2024 free agency. Meanwhile, the Patriots and other teams interested in Higgins will be monitoring the situation closely, hoping to secure the talented wide receiver for their own offensive aspirations.
The 2023 season will offer fresh challenges and opportunities for both teams. The Patriots will commence their campaign with a home game against the Philadelphia Eagles on September 10, while the Bengals will face off against AFC North rivals, the Cleveland Browns, in a highly anticipated matchup.
| POLL | ||
5 AOUT | 405 ANSWERS Cincinnati Bengals projected to Make Bold Move: Star WR Tee Higgins Traded to AFC Rival in Blockbuster Deal Is Tee Higgins a good enough player to be a #1 WR? | ||
| Yes | 356 | 87.9 % |
| No | 49 | 12.1 % |
| List of polls | ||
