As the NFL trade deadline looms, the spotlight is on Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins. The talented wideout, who has been a key piece of the Bengals’ offense, finds himself at the center of trade rumors due to his uncertain future with the team. With Cincinnati balancing its financial commitments—most notably, a potential long-term extension for fellow wideout Ja’Marr Chase—the prospect of trading Higgins has become a hot topic. Among the teams reportedly in the mix, the Washington Commanders have emerged as the clear favorites to acquire the 25-year-old receiver, positioning themselves for a bold move to bolster their offense.
Odds for Tee Higgins’ Next Team
- Washington Commanders: +191 (52.4%)
- Pittsburgh Steelers: +300 (25%)
- Tennessee Titans: +300 (25%)
- New England Patriots: +500 (16.7%)
- Baltimore Ravens: +1500 (6.3%)
Why the Commanders Lead the Pack
The Commanders’ interest in Tee Higgins makes perfect sense from a roster-building perspective. With Terry McLaurin already established as their top wide receiver, adding Higgins would create a formidable duo, elevating Washington’s offensive firepower. Higgins’ size, contested catch ability, and proficiency as a deep threat would fit perfectly in Kliff Kingsbury’s offensive schemes, which rely heavily on big plays and outside vertical threats.
Higgins would be an ideal weapon for Jayden Daniels, who is in need of help at the receiver position. Washington has the cap space to offer Higgins the kind of lucrative deal he is likely seeking, making them an attractive destination from both a football and financial standpoint.
The Other Contenders
Though the Commanders are the current favorites, several other teams remain in the mix. The Pittsburgh Steelers have been linked to Higgins as well, though a trade within the division would be a significant hurdle. Pairing Higgins with George Pickens would provide the Steelers with two dynamic receiving options, but the Bengals may hesitate to strengthen a division rival.
The Tennessee Titans are also a strong candidate, especially given their need for a top-tier wide receiver. Higgins’ previous relationship with Titans head coach Brian Callahan, who was his offensive coordinator in Cincinnati, could make Tennessee an appealing landing spot. The Titans are looking to give their offense a boost, and Higgins could immediately slot in as their top option in the passing game.
The New England Patriots, while less likely, have the cap space and need for a game-changing receiver. Higgins would provide their struggling offense with a much-needed boost, as the team continues to seek out a top playmaker. Meanwhile, the Baltimore Ravens are a long shot given they just landed Diontae Johnson to strengthen their receiver room.
Why It Makes Sense for the Bengals to Trade Higgins
While Tee Higgins is undeniably a valuable piece of Cincinnati’s offense, the Bengals are facing financial realities that make a trade increasingly logical. With Ja’Marr Chase likely to command a massive contract in the near future, the Bengals may struggle to keep both receivers under long-term deals. Trading Higgins now would allow them to recoup draft picks or other assets that could help replenish their roster for the future.
Additionally, Higgins is set to become a free agent after the season, and if the Bengals fail to extend him, they risk losing him for nothing in return. Cincinnati’s slow start to the season (3-5) has only intensified the trade rumors, as the team may look to retool for the future rather than push for a deep playoff run this year. By trading Higgins, the Bengals can free up cap space and focus on building around their other key players, all while securing value for a player they might lose in free agency.
