However, Higgins says returning to the Bengals is not in his control
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Cincinnati Bengals star wide receiver Tee Higgins would love to return in free agency, but knows it’s not in his control.
Higgins, 26, and fellow star Ja’Marr Chase have been one of the league's best wide receiver duos since Chase entered the NFL in 2021.
"I mean, obviously I would love to be there in Cincinnati. I love it here. I love the city. I love the fans. I love the coaching staff, everything in the building. But, hey, it’s not in my control." Higgins said via FOX19 Cincinncati.
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins walks off the field after the victory over the Denver Broncos at Paycor Stadium. (Katie Stratman-Imagn Images)
Higgins is one of many key players the Bengals have hitting free agency, and it’s not guaranteed they will make a strong offer to retain their 2020 second-round pick.
Defensive tackle B.J. Hill, cornerback Mike Hilton and tight end Mike Gesicki are among the core group of players hitting free agency.
In addition, Chase and star edge rusher Trey Hendrickson are seeking large contract extensions.
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Cincinnati Bengals, from left, Ja'Marr Chase, Joe Burrow and Tee Higgins take the field for the Steelers game at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh on Jan. 4, 2025. (IMAGN)
Higgins said he is going to take some time away before deciding on his future.
"I’m just trying to stay away from it right now and clear my head, get away from the game, especially after this, after (the Super Bowl). Clear my head, get away from the game for a few weeks, and then, obviously, in March, that’s when things will start ramping up for me with the free agency coming up," Higgins said.
Higgins will be highly sought after in free agency. Despite being second fiddle to Chase in Cincinnati, he has proven his ability to be the No. 1 receiver in any team's offense.
The 6-foot-4-inch receiver has dealt with injury issues, missing five games in each of the last two seasons, but has been highly productive when on the field.
Higgins caught 73 passes for 911 yards and 10 touchdowns last season.
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins catches a pass against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium. (Barry Reeger-Imagn Images)
Through his five-year career, Higgins has caught 330 passes for 4,595 yards and 34 touchdowns.
The Bengals finished 9-8 this season, just missing the playoffs after suffering one-too-many heartbreaking losses early in the season.
Retaining Higgins, among other key players, would go a long way to ensuring the Bengals remain in playoff contention for years to come.
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Ryan Canfield is a digital production assistant for Fox News Digital.
