The Cincinnati Bengals are feeling the absence of a key offensive force this season, as wide receiver Tee Higgins remains on the sidelines due to a hamstring injury. This setback came just as the team kicked off their 2024 NFL campaign, hoping for a strong start.
Higgins, who has been an integral part of the Bengals' offense, missed the chance to prove his worth in their season opener. The 2023 season was marred by injuries for the wideout, keeping him out of action for five games. Unfortunately, it appears the injury woes have carried over into the new season. With Week 2 on the horizon, Higgins' status is still uncertain, leaving fans and teammates anxious about his return.
During the offseason, Higgins made headlines by signing the Bengals' one-year franchise tag as a free agent after negotiations for a long-term contract failed to reach a conclusion by the July 15 deadline. "I had time to reflect and think. I had long talks with my agent. A lot of back and forth about what I wanted to do. I just made the decision to sign the [franchise] tag," Higgins revealed.
Aiming for a Super Bowl run, Higgins opted not to hold out despite the looming contract uncertainty. "At the end of the day, I just wanted to come out here and try to win a Super Bowl," he stated. His commitment to the team is unwavering. "I'm happy with the decision I made. I'm here for the Bengals for the 2024 season. ... Instead of holding out and waiting and just watching from afar, I'd rather be in the mix with the guys and grind it out with them. That's how I've always been," Higgins assured fans and teammates alike.
However, his absence due to injury has raised questions among some fans, leading to speculation about the legitimacy of his ailments. Addressing these rumors, Higgins expressed his frustration. "I just don't understand why fans think I'm faking an injury when for me to get an extension for a contract, the deadline is over. I just don't understand ... It doesn't make sense to me," he said, dismissing any notions of insincerity.
Higgins is determined to contribute at full capacity when he returns. "I want to go out there and give my teammates 100% of Tee Higgins, you know what I'm saying? I don't want to give them 50%," he emphasized. His focus remains on recovery and returning to the field, ready to make a significant impact.
As the Bengals prepare for their upcoming games, the uncertainty surrounding Higgins' availability looms large. His presence has the potential to reinvigorate their offense and bolster their Super Bowl aspirations. Until then, fans and teammates are eagerly awaiting his recovery, hopeful that he can soon rejoin the grind and help drive the team towards glory.