Should Tee Higgins Be the Patriots’ Top Target in Free Agency
The Patriots are eyeing Tee Higgins as a key addition to boost their wide receiver corps in the upcoming NFL free agency
Tee Higgins, New England Patriots, Cincinnati Bengals, NFL, Free Agency
Cincinnati: The New England Patriots are really looking to upgrade their wide receiver lineup before the 2025 NFL season. Sure, the draft is an option, but free agency might just give them the best shot at a quick fix.
One name that’s buzzing is Tee Higgins from the Cincinnati Bengals. He’s had some injury issues lately, but when he’s on the field, he’s a game-changer. This season, he’s racked up 45 catches for 581 yards and five touchdowns in just eight games. Plus, he hit over 1,000 receiving yards in both 2021 and 2022.
The Bengals have a killer offense with Joe Burrow throwing the ball and Ja’Marr Chase alongside Higgins. So, will Higgins even hit the free agent market? That’s the big question.
Recently, Bengals reporter Mike Petraglia shared some insights on NBC Sports Boston’s podcast. He thought there was a 99% chance Higgins would leave Cincinnati, especially since his agent had a rocky history with the team. But things changed when Burrow hinted that talks were ongoing to keep Higgins in town.
It turns out Higgins is switching agents, which could mean he’s open to staying with the Bengals after all. If he does hit free agency, should the Patriots go all in to sign him? He could be just what they need to support a quarterback like Drake Maye.
Perry from NBC Sports thinks Higgins should be at the top of the Patriots’ wish list. He might not be a No. 1 receiver for a Super Bowl team, but he could definitely step up for the Patriots.
Higgins has shown he can shine, especially when Ja’Marr Chase is out. He averages six catches and over 100 yards per game in those situations. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 219 pounds, he’s a physical presence on the field. While his route options might be limited, the routes he does run would be a huge asset for the Patriots, who haven’t had a deep threat in years.
Sure, Higgins might come with a hefty price tag if he hits free agency, but the Patriots are sitting on over $100 million in salary cap space this offseason. So, they’ve got the cash to make it happen.