The Bengals just pulled a play out of the Moneyball playbook—but this isn’t Oakland, and Tee Higgins isn’t buying a lottery ticket. Cincinnati’s latest contract twist? Let’s just say it’s more loaded than a Skyline Chili cheese coney… with a side of suspense.
Higgins swapped his $26.16 million franchise tag for a four−year “deal” that’s really a one year, $35.9 million audition, per NBC. The Bengals hold year-to-year control, with only $10M fully guaranteed in 2026. Hence, Cincy can cut ties after 2025 like a QB dodging a blitz.
“I haven’t seen him smile like that in a long time,” agent Rocky Arceneaux said about owner Mike Brown after Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase inked deals. But here’s the kicker…
THIS IS INSANE
THE #BENGALS RIPPED OFF TEE HIGGINS WITH A FAKE 4-YEAR DEAL.
He swapped a fully-guaranteed $26.16M tag for a “deal” with zero 2025 guarantees, just $10M full injury GTD. in 2026.
Cincy holds a year-to-year option, making this a 1-year, $35.9M deal
(Via NBC) pic.twitter.com/cJLkAVBGVT
— MLFootball (@_MLFootball) March 21, 2025
$20 million 2025 roster bonus isn’t guaranteed. Miss games? He loses $1.17 million. weekly—a risky bet after missing 10 games since 2022. Meanwhile, $1.7M Super Bowl incentives dangle like a World Series curveball.
Chase’s extension through 2029 adds glitter, but Higgins’ pact? It’s a fireworks show with a potential dud. Arceneaux claims Brown’s “committed to Super Bowls,” yet Higgins’ security hinges on health and performance.
The Bengals’ front office just turned a long-term promise into a high-stakes poker hand. Will Higgins cash in or fold?
Need more tea on Tee’s deal? This story is unfolding—stay locked in for the latest.
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