The Cincinnati Bengals, at least for now, might not be looking for a Tee Higgins replacement in the 2025 NFL Draft, but they definitely might need some help. On

For the second straight season, Bengals use the franchise tag on Higgins, while they hope to ink a long-term pact with both he and Chase.

March 3 (UPI) -- The Cincinnati Bengals have placed the franchise tag on Tee Higgins, the wide receiver announced Monday. Higgins, who also received the designation last year, is set to make $26.2 million under the terms of the tag in 2025-26. The Bengals and Higgins can continue to negotiate for a long-term pact until July 15.

The Cincinnati Bengals have placed the franchise tag on Tee Higgins for a second time, as the team hopes to work out a long-term deal with the star wide receiver.

Most of the critics, it seems, just can't fathom how the Bengals might find the cash for Higgins, plus major extensions for Ja'Marr Chase and Trey Hendrickson. Naturally, this has led to speculation that the Bengals would still consider a tag-and-trade scenario if the right offer came along.

In 12 games, Tee Higgins caught 73 passes and scored ten touchdowns, echoing Ja'Marr Chase's on-field impact. No, the Benglas have to sign both receivers.