Bengals Work to Secure Futures of Key Players
The Cincinnati Bengals are making significant moves to cement their future superstar lineup, and the focus is squarely on Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Trey Hendrickson. Each player has become indispensable to the team, and the Bengals clearly recognize their critical roles, pushing for long-term commitments well before the 2025 offseason.
Negotiations and Strategy
For Tee Higgins, the Bengals have already demonstrated their intention to keep him close, presenting a hefty $26.1 million franchise tag to ensure his presence. Having already played under this tag in 2024, Higgins could face another round with the tag as the team navigates these complex negotiations. It's a strategic play to hold on to a player whose on-field contributions have consistently impressed.
Meanwhile, Ja'Marr Chase is a name on the lips of many as the wide receiver who could "become the league's highest-paid wide receiver, possibly by a wide margin," according to ESPN. Chase is contracted through 2025, giving the Bengals some time to fine-tune a deal that reflects his exceptional talent. His extraordinary performance last season—with 127 catches, 1,708 receiving yards, and 17 touchdowns—certainly warrants this consideration, especially when the benchmark set by Justin Jefferson at $35 million annually is in sight.
Pressure and Performance
Trey Hendrickson, the powerhouse on defense, led the NFL with an impressive 17.5 sacks last season. His current contract, valued at $18.6 million for 2025, may seem substantial, but in the world of top-tier edge rushers, earnings closer to $30 million a year aren't unheard of. The Bengals will want to strike a deal that reflects Hendrickson's formidable skills while staying competitive in the market.
Securing these players isn't just about maintaining current performance; it's a strategic move to set the Bengals up for long-term success. Each contract reflects not just the players' skills and contributions but also a commitment to building a team primed for success. As these negotiations unfold, Cincinnati fans can watch these developments with bated breath, knowing these decisions will shape the team's future for years to come.