In a stunning turn of events, the potential extension for Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase could potentially signal the end of another talented wideout, Tee Higgins. The Bengals have been making a concerted effort to secure a long-term deal for Chase after failing to reach an agreement with Higgins, who is set to become a free agent next offseason. While Higgins has reported for camp, there are doubts about his future with the team if he does not receive the contract he desires.
General Manager Mike Brown has made it clear that signing Chase to a long-term deal is a top priority, with quarterback Joe Burrow also being a key focus. However, Brown’s comments suggest that Chase may be the team’s secondary priority, potentially setting the stage for Higgins’ departure after the upcoming season. The decision between Higgins and Chase could prove to be a difficult one for the Bengals as they navigate their future.
The possibility of a trade involving Higgins has been floated, with many teams likely willing to offer significant assets in exchange for the talented receiver. If the Bengals were to hold onto Higgins and allow him to reach free agency, they would risk losing him without receiving anything in return. As the team may not have the financial resources to retain both Chase and Higgins, a trade involving the latter seems increasingly likely.
One potential landing spot for Higgins could be the Los Angeles Chargers, who are in need of a playmaker following the departures of Keenan Allen and Mike Williams. While the financial details would need to be worked out, Higgins could find a new home where he can showcase his talents and be a focal point of the offense. Joining forces with quarterback Justin Herbert could provide Higgins with the platform to shine and establish himself as a top receiving option in the league.
Despite his youth, Higgins has already proven himself as a productive player and a valuable asset for Burrow and the Bengals. His potential pairing with a quarterback of Patrick Mahomes’ caliber could lead to exciting possibilities on the field. The idea of Higgins being traded to a rival team like the Kansas City Chiefs adds an element of unexpected drama to the AFC landscape.
While it may seem unlikely for a team to trade a standout player to a conference rival, the NFL is a league where anything can happen for the right price. As the Bengals weigh their options and consider the futures of both Chase and Higgins, the potential for a major shakeup in Cincinnati’s receiving corps looms large. Stay tuned for more developments as this offseason saga unfolds.
