Tee Higgins to Patriots trade proposal: Why moving early for Bengals WR makes economic sense for New England
During the 2024 NFL offseason, Tee Higgins received the franchise tag from the Cincinnati Bengals despite his attempts to land a long-term contract extension. The deadline for him to get an extension has already passed, creating a difficult situation for the star wide receiver.
With Higgins reportedly unhappy that he didn't get the deal he was looking for, he is rumored to be seeking a trade before the start of the new season. The New England Patriots have emerged as a potential destination as they currently need an established player at the position.
Unlike the Bengals, the Patriots are in a favorable situation when it comes to the salary cap. New England has an additional $19 million in cap space this year compared to Cincinnati. The Bengals are already paying Joe Burrow the highest AAV in the entire NFL, and Ja'Marr Chase is nearing his extension, so their spending money is tight right now.
The Patriots currently have the most available cap space in the NFL, so they have the flexibility to make a big move. They also just drafted Drake Maye, so their quarterback isn't due for a contract any time soon. This means that now may be the best time to solve their wide receiver issue. Higgins could help them do so if they are willing to depart with other assets.
What could Patriots' Tee Higgins trade package look like?
Recent reports have suggested a realistic asking price for Tee Higgins in a potential trade would likely be a second-round pick in the 2025 NFL draft. The New England Patriots are currently projected to be one of the worst teams in the NFL this year, which means that their pick is probably going to be toward the beginning of the round.
This could potentially convince the Cincinnati Bengals to trade Higgins, but adding a mid-rounder to sweeten the deal could get it done. A second-rounder and fifth-rounder may be enough for the Patriots to land the star wide receiver, especially after the Bengals have already declined to extend him beyond the 2024 NFL season.
How Tee Higgins fits in current Patriots WR corps
The New England Patriots had a major issue at wide receiver last season as they were one of the worst teams in the entire NFL at the position. While they improved during the offseason by bringing in KJ Osborn and Ja'Lynn Polk, they still lack an established veteran to lead the unit.
This creates a situation where Tee Higgins is seemingly a perfect fit for what the Patriots need. It could also benefit the star wideout, who would get the opportunity to serve as their number-one option after playing behind Ja'Marr Chase with the Cincinnati Bengals.