Tee Higgins injury update: Latest on Bengals WR for Fantasy Football Week 17

Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins showed up on Tuesday and Wednesday's injury reports with ankle and knee concerns. His status bears watching as the Bengals prepare for Saturday's crucial matchup against the Denver Broncos.

The dual injuries haven't kept Higgins off the practice field entirely. He logged limited participations on both days, continuing a pattern of managing various ailments through practice restrictions in recent weeks.

His Week 16 performance should calm fantasy managers' nerves. Despite appearing on the injury report with a knee issue, Higgins entered the Browns game without restrictions. He rewarded fantasy lineups with eight receptions, 58 yards and a touchdown on 11 targets in Cincinnati's 24-6 victory.

NFL: Cleveland Browns at Cincinnati Bengals - Source: Imagn

The Clemson product has posted mixed results in 2024, ranking 104th overall in the NFL and 28th among wide receivers. His 114.7 total fantasy points translate to 11.5 points per game, with notable swings in production throughout the season.

His ceiling remains enticing, as demonstrated by a Week 11 explosion against the Chargers. Tee Higgins dominated that matchup with nine catches, 148 yards and a touchdown for 20.8 fantasy points. However, he also bottomed out in Week 14 against Dallas with just two catches for 23 yards.

Tee Higgins Week 17 fantasy outlook and trade buzz

Syndication: The Enquirer - Source: Imagn

Projected for 10.7 fantasy points in Saturday's NFL Network broadcast, Higgins brings momentum from his recent success. Over his past five games, he's accumulated 386 yards and four touchdowns on 29 catches.

Trade speculation swirls around the pending free agent. Patriots receiver Kendrick Bourne recently made a public pitch on TikTok Live;

"Aye Tee Higgins if you out there, come to the Pats bro. It ain't what it seems bro, it's gonna be lit... Drake Maye and Tee Higgins touchdown. Look how good that sounds."

The recruitment efforts might prove futile. Higgins recently switched agents, joining the same representation as teammate Ja'Marr Chase. This move, coupled with Joe Burrow's public push for an extension, suggests the Bengals aim to keep their dynamic receiving duo intact.

For Week 17 fantasy purposes, Higgins' practice participation, despite injuries, points toward availability against Denver. His recent target volume and red zone opportunities make him a worthy WR2/WR3 consideration, even with the injury designations.