Higgins: Decision to remain with Bengals 'not in my hands'

Wide receiver Tee Higgins would like to remain with the Cincinnati Bengals but acknowledged he isn't the one making the final decision.

"We all want to keep the core pieces what it is. ... Obviously, we want to build something here in Cincy," Higgins told Fox 19's Joe Danneman.

"But it's not in my hands right now. I got to do what I need to do, and if that's go to another team, that's what happens."

The Bengals franchise tagged Higgins before the 2024 season after the two sides couldn't agree on a new contract. Despite missing time due to various injuries, Higgins recorded 73 catches for 911 yards and a career-high 10 touchdowns in 12 games last campaign.

Cincinnati could again tag Higgins with a one-year contract but would owe him a significantly higher salary than the $21.8 million he earned last year, according to Over the Cap. The league's deadline for clubs to place franchise or transition tags on players is March 4.

"I would love to be here in Cincinnati," Higgins said. "I love it here. I love the city, I love the fans, I love the coaching staff, everything in the building. But it's not in my control."

The Clemson product added that he plans to get away from football and clear his head following Super Bowl weekend but has his sights set on March, when he's scheduled to become a free agent.

Higgins has posted 900-plus yards in four of his five seasons in Cincinnati while forming a formidable trio alongside quarterback Joe Burrow and receiver Ja'Marr Chase.

Cincinnati is entering a pivotal offseason. Bengals director of personnel Duke Tobin recently said that signing Chase to an extension is a "priority" for the club. Defensive end Trey Hendrickson is also eyeing a new deal after leading the league with 17.5 sacks in 2024.