Cincinnati Bengals Eye Future with Key Players
Securing Key Contracts for Chase, Higgins, and Hendrickson
The Cincinnati Bengals are deep into strategizing for the future, focusing on securing long-term contracts for their cornerstone players: Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Trey Hendrickson. It’s a challenge, but one that the Bengals are embracing as they aim for stability and sustained success in the coming years.
Chase, who dazzled last season with 127 catches totaling 1,708 receiving yards and an astonishing 17 touchdowns, is currently under contract until 2025. There’s speculation, however, that his next contract could see him “become the league's highest-paid wide receiver, possibly by a wide margin,” according to ESPN. Considering the current benchmark set by Justin Jefferson, with an average annual salary of $35 million, Chase’s future negotiations could set new standards.
Higgins and Franchise Tag Dynamics
Then there's Tee Higgins, another vital cog in the Bengals’ offensive machine. Playing under the franchise tag in 2024, Higgins might find himself in the same situation again. The Bengals are reportedly ready to slap a $26.1 million tag on him to retain his talents. This move shows Cincinnati's willingness to invest heavily in maintaining a formidable receiving corps that could compete with any in the league.
Hendrickson, A Defensive Powerhouse
On the defensive side, Trey Hendrickson is a commanding presence. Having led the NFL with 17.5 sacks last season, his impact is undeniable. The Bengals have him secured with an $18.6 million contract for 2025. Yet, there’s a widening gap between his pay and what the top-tier edge rushers are earning—it’s inching toward $30 million annually. Cincinnati will need to keep this in mind if they hope to keep Hendrickson disrupting offenses in their favor.
The Bengals’ approach underscores their commitment to building around a strong core of players who have already demonstrated their ability to perform at an elite level. As the 2025 offseason approaches, all eyes will be on how Cincinnati manages these high-stakes negotiations, ensuring their roster remains competitive in the ever-demanding race for NFL supremacy.