Bengals legend issues 5-word message on Tee Higgins’ mission to stick with Joe Burrow

One of the top WRs, Bengals' Tee Higgins is ready to take less money to continue playing for the team. The fact that he is playing under the franchise tag and is okay with a smaller contract is completely strange. Especially, after his standout performance in the Bengals’ overtime win against the Broncos.

Now, former Bengals QB Boomer Esiason took to X to question: "Why should anyone take less?" and used the hashtag "GetYours."

As reported by CBS Sports' Aditi Kinkhabwala, Tee Higgins says that being paid as a No. 1 wide receiver isn't his top priority. He is more than happy to play alongside QB Joe Burrow and WR Ja'Marr Chase.

“I’m playing with, if not the best, one of the best, QBs. I’m playing with, if not the best, one of the best, WRs. That opens up things for me," Higgins said. “In this offense, everyone has a chance to be spotlighted.”

In the Week 17 game against the Denver Broncos, Tee Higgins scored 11 receptions, 131 yards, and three touchdowns, which includes the game-winner with just a minute left.

What's commendable is in spite of missing five games this season due to injury, the WR has posted career-high numbers. He scored 69 catches, 858 yards and 10 TDs.

Tee Higgins is one of the most coveted free agent-target in the NFL ahead of 2025

In spite of a stellar performance, Tee Higgins’ future in Cincinnati remains uncertain. The Bengals are facing tough financial decisions. Especially, with star QB Joe Burrow and WR Ja'Marr Chase needing new contracts.

Unfortunately, with a projected franchise tag price of $26.2 million for Higgins, the Bengals are unlikely to be able to retain him. This has left his future uncertain in the NFL.

Moreover, Higgins skipping offseason workouts in portions this year shows that he wants a long-term deal in some other NFL team.

The Patriots and Commanders have high salary cap space. Thus, they could be strong contenders to land Higgins in 2025.

Currently, he is the 19th-highest-paid wide receiver in the NFL with a $21.8 million salary.