Chase and Higgins Become NFL’s Top-Paid Duo as Bengals Bank on Super Bowl Return
As the Cincinnati Bengals prepare for training camp, Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins will enter with a rare distinction: the NFL’s highest-paid wide receiver tandem. On the same day this offseason, the duo secured lucrative four-year contracts totaling $276 million, with Chase signing for $161 million and Higgins for $115 million.
These record-setting deals not only reflect their individual talents but also place a massive spotlight on them ahead of a critical 2025 season. Expectations are high, both within the organization and from fans, for them to prove they’re the league’s premier wide receiver pairing.
Bengals Bet Big as Chase and Higgins Face Pressure to Prove Their Worth
Chase acknowledged the pressure, stating that the need to “prove ourselves all over again” is not just a team goal, but a demand from fans and the broader NFL community. The urgency is amplified by the Bengals’ postseason drought and the need for their star players to deliver on their massive contracts. The team, having invested heavily in both receivers, clearly sees them as central to their path back to playoff contention and beyond.
Chase and Higgins Become NFL’s Top-Paid Duo as Bengals Bank on Super Bowl Return
Their routes to these contracts have diverged. In the past year, both players pushed for long-term deals, but their performances varied. Chase had a historic season, leading the league in catches, receiving yards, and touchdowns, becoming just the fifth player to achieve the receiving triple crown since the AFL-NFL merger.
Meanwhile, Higgins struggled with injuries but still ranked among the top 10 in receiving yards per game. Despite the contrasting years, the Bengals committed to both, recognizing their combined potential.
Strengthening Bonds and Resetting Goals as Chase and Higgins Target Championship Run
This offseason, Chase and Higgins have not only signed their contracts but also deepened their connection on and off the field. Both took part in a private receiver workout organized by former Bengals star Chad Johnson, which included about a dozen players.
Chase emphasized their growing chemistry, noting how their individual journeys have merged, with each learning and building alongside the other. Their unity will be key to executing Cincinnati’s offensive strategy in the coming season.
Ultimately, the goal for Chase, Higgins, and the Bengals extends beyond personal accolades. After missing the playoffs last season despite standout performances from stars like Joe Burrow and Trey Hendrickson, the team is hungry to return to its 2021 and 2022 form, seasons that saw a Super Bowl appearance and an AFC Championship Game run.
Chase made it clear that while the past was historic, it’s time to reset and aim higher, saying, “We can’t dwell on what we did… we have to show it all over again.”
Ja'Mar Chase celebrates with Tee Higgins in the 2nd half
Cincinnati Bengals wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins signed four-year contract extensions, keeping them in Cincinnati for the peak of their careers alongside quarterback Joe Burrow.
These two star players highlighted the shift in expectations within the Bengals’ organization over the past five years. During this period, the team has had four straight winning seasons, five playoff victories, and even made it to the Super Bowl.
“I want to win a championship, and we can definitely win it here,” Higgins said in a joint press conference after the signings were finalized. “The money isn’t the big factor. It’s being with the guys for another four years and trying to win that championship.”
With Burrow signed through 2029, two strong starting tackles, and standout rookie running back Chase Brown, the Bengals are set to remain one of the NFL’s best offenses.
Securing Higgins and Chase’s contracts was the last step to keeping this offensive core intact.
Chase’s $161 million deal makes him the highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL, while Higgins’ $115 million extension places him among the league’s top 10 highest-paid wide receivers.
“Now that this is concluded, the next step for us is a championship with these guys,” Bengals head coach Zac Taylor said. “I think that’s a big reason why they wanted to be here; why they wanted to come back — they know there’s more for us to accomplish as a team, a lot more wins to be had, a lot more great moments.”
Since Chase was drafted with the fifth overall pick in 2021, the Bengals have not had a losing season. Last year, he became the first NFL player ever to have at least 100 receptions (127), 1,700 receiving yards (1,708), and 17 touchdown receptions in a season.
Despite having one of the league’s top offenses in 2024, the Bengals ended with a 9-8 record and missed the playoffs for the second year in a row.
Tee Higgins (NFL)
Chase shared on Tuesday that his standout season wouldn’t have been possible without Higgins playing alongside him. When negotiating his own contract, he made it a priority for Higgins to stay in Cincinnati through their shared agent, Rocky Arceneaux.
“Signing us together, that’s the whole goal, for us to push this team and each other as far as we can go,” Chase said. “The one goal is to be the best in the AFC first. That’ll give us the easiest chance to get to the Super Bowl. If we get that first, that will give us the chance to get the next step.”
Higgins, a second-round pick in 2020, had been hoping for a major contract for over two years. There were times when he wasn’t sure if the deal would happen.
Last season, he switched agents to join the same representation as Chase
“I told Rocky, ‘Bro, do your big one,’” Higgins said. “I’m a quiet guy. I don’t do too much confrontation going back and forth. I had my full trust in Rocky. He was able to get it done.”
Though the contract talks were frustrating at times, Higgins said he has no hard feelings toward the Bengals ownership.
“Last year, I took a chance,” Higgins said. “I bet on myself. And I want to say it paid off. It’s all good now. It worked out in my favor. I’m just happy. I want to thank (executive vice president) Katie (Blackburn) and the whole organization for helping me and believing in me.”
In 2024, the Bengals led the NFL in passing yards and touchdowns, ranking sixth in points per game. While Chase had a historic year, Higgins also had his best season, finishing 30th in the NFL in catches despite missing five games due to injury.
Ja’Marr Chase (NFL)
Bengals director of player personnel Duke Tobin commented on the team’s success in keeping elite wide receivers like Chase and Higgins: “The Bengals have a long history of drafting and retaining elite wide receivers, and we’re happy to continue that tradition with Ja’Marr and Tee.
We are known for our explosive, high-scoring offense, and Ja’Marr and Tee are a big part of that identity. They earned these extensions with their abilities and promise for the future.”
Tobin is also hoping to secure an extension with Trey Hendrickson, despite the All-Pro edge rusher being allowed to seek a trade. Hendrickson is entering the final year of his contract after leading the league with 17 1/2 sacks last season.
“I definitely would love to see Trey back with us and he gets what he deserves,” Higgins said. “He has been a great part of our defense for the last few years. I’d definitely love to see Trey back on the team.”
The Cincinnati Bengals have long been known for their unique front-office structure, operating without a traditional general manager. However, recent events suggest that quarterback Joe Burrow has stepped into an unofficial managerial role.
Burrow played a pivotal role in securing lucrative contract extensions for wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, making them two of the highest-paid players at their positions. Chase signed a four-year, $161 million extension, while Higgins landed a four-year, $115 million deal, solidifying their place in the Bengals’ future.
Historically, the Bengals have been reluctant to spend heavily on player contracts, often taking a tough stance in negotiations. This frugality was evident last season when both Chase and Higgins struggled to secure new deals.
Bengals owner Mike Brown even expressed skepticism about overpaying players, emphasizing salary cap constraints. However, Burrow’s influence seemingly forced the organization’s hand, demonstrating that if the team’s star quarterback insists on something, management listens.
Burrow’s leadership went beyond the field, as he made it clear to the front office that keeping his key weapons was a priority. Following a crucial victory over the Dallas Cowboys, he publicly expressed confidence in the Bengals’ ability to retain Higgins.
Tee Higgins (NFL)
Later, during Super Bowl week, he directly addressed the Bengals’ management, emphasizing the importance of re-signing Chase, Higgins, Trey Hendrickson, and Mike Gesicki. His assertiveness put significant pressure on the organization to act, leading to landmark contracts for Chase and Higgins.
The Bengals have experienced the consequences of mishandling star quarterbacks before, most notably with Carson Palmer. In 2011, Palmer became so frustrated with the team’s direction that he opted to retire rather than continue playing for Cincinnati.
Recognizing the warning signs, the Bengals moved swiftly to ensure that Burrow never reached that level of frustration. Former Bengals quarterback Palmer even noted Burrow’s growing discontent, adding urgency to the team’s decision to lock down its core offensive weapons.
Bengals Double Down on Burrow, Raising Expectations for Super Bowl Success
With Higgins and Chase secured, the focus shifts back to Burrow. Having pushed for these contracts, he now faces heightened expectations to deliver results. The Bengals can no longer afford slow starts or missing the playoffs. If Burrow believes these players are essential to winning, then winning must follow.
Additionally, the Bengals must navigate the financial challenges that come with paying their quarterback and top receivers an average of $124 million per year, making smart draft selections and low-cost signings essential for roster depth.
What once seemed like an offseason on the brink of disaster has turned into a reaffirmation of the Bengals’ commitment to winning. By making these aggressive moves, the franchise has sent a clear message: they are all-in on competing for a Super Bowl with Burrow leading the way.
The next step will be ensuring they continue to build a competitive team around him while maintaining financial flexibility. If the Bengals can successfully navigate these challenges, they may finally achieve their long-sought goal of securing a Lombardi Trophy.
The Cincinnati Bengals have once again placed the franchise tag on star wide receiver Tee Higgins, delaying a potential long-term contract. The team announced on Monday that while they have tagged Higgins for the second consecutive year, they remain committed to negotiating a multiyear extension.
Higgins himself confirmed the news on social media. With the NFL’s deadline for franchise tags passing at 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday, the Bengals and Higgins now have until July 15 to finalize a deal. If no agreement is reached by then, Higgins will play the 2025 season under the tag.
Higgins’ Franchise Tag and Bengals’ Efforts to Manage Key Contract Extensions
By playing under the franchise tag, Higgins is set to earn a guaranteed $26.2 million for the 2025 season, a 120% increase from the $20.6 million he made on last year’s tag. Despite this, both Higgins and the Bengals remain focused on securing a long-term deal that keeps him alongside quarterback Joe Burrow for years to come.
At 26 years old, Higgins is a vital part of the Bengals’ offense, serving as Burrow’s No. 2 receiving option behind Ja’Marr Chase. Ensuring Higgins remains in Cincinnati for the foreseeable future is a priority, but negotiations have yet to reach a resolution.
Tee Higgins (NFL)
While Higgins’ contract situation is a major storyline, the Bengals have several other pressing matters to address this offseason. Fellow wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase and star pass rusher Trey Hendrickson are also seeking contract extensions. Additionally, tight end Mike Gesicki, who had an impressive 2024 season, is set to hit free agency.
In a move to create cap space, the Bengals released starting guard Alex Cappa, freeing up approximately $10.2 million. With multiple key players needing new deals, the Bengals’ front office has a challenging offseason ahead.
Higgins’ Impact and Bengals’ Challenge in Securing Key Player Contracts
Higgins had a strong 2024 season despite playing only 12 games, recording a career-high 10 touchdown receptions along with 73 catches for 911 yards. Since being drafted in the second round in 2020, he has amassed 330 receptions for 4,595 yards and 34 touchdowns.
His partnership with Chase has been one of the most productive receiving duos in the NFL, playing a crucial role in Burrow’s success. Had Higgins hit free agency, he would have been one of the most sought-after players on the market, but the Bengals’ decision to tag him ensures he remains in Cincinnati for now.
Bengals director of player personnel Duke Tobin has expressed confidence in the team’s ability to extend Higgins, along with Chase and Hendrickson. However, executing all three deals will be a significant challenge. The Bengals’ decision to tag Higgins signals their commitment to keeping him long-term, but negotiations must progress before the July 15 deadline. Whether the Bengals can manage their salary cap effectively while retaining their core players remains to be seen, making this a crucial offseason for the franchise.
Bengals Plan Major Extensions for Chase, Higgins, and Hendrickson While Eyeing Roster Upgrades
The Cincinnati Bengals are prepared to make significant financial moves this offseason, with plans to secure long-term deals for key players while also bolstering their roster with new talent. Director of player personnel Duke Tobin shared that the team can afford to lock up its big trio—Tee Higgins, Ja’Marr Chase, and Trey Hendrickson—while also making additions through free agency. The priority is to retain their star players, and the team is in a solid position to manage their salary cap effectively.
The first major task for the Bengals is to sign wide receiver Tee Higgins, who is set to become a free agent in March. Tobin expressed the team’s preference for a long-term agreement with Higgins, emphasizing that this has always been the goal. While Tobin did not comment on the potential use of the franchise tag if a deal is not reached by the deadline, he reiterated that they are focused on getting a deal done with the talented wideout. The Bengals are in a fortunate position to retain him along with other key players.
Bengals Focus on Ja’Marr Chase’s Record Deal and Trey Hendrickson’s Contract Extension
Next on the Bengals’ list is making Ja’Marr Chase the highest-paid receiver in NFL history. Tobin acknowledged that it is inevitable that Chase will surpass Justin Jefferson’s $35 million-per-year deal, and the team is committed to making this happen. Tobin made it clear that Chase is a priority for the team and that they will work to secure a deal that rewards the wide receiver for his exceptional talent. The Bengals are confident they can get the deal done for their star player.
Bengals Plan Major Extensions for Chase, Higgins, and Hendrickson While Eyeing Roster Upgrades
In addition to their offensive stars, the Bengals also plan to extend the contract of pass rusher Trey Hendrickson. Tobin highlighted Hendrickson’s passion and dedication to the team, noting that he has been an excellent fit. The Bengals are aiming to reach an agreement with Hendrickson to ensure he remains a key part of the defense moving forward. While Hendrickson is still under contract, the team is working toward a long-term extension that satisfies both sides.
Bengals Confident in Salary Cap Management, Focus on Defense, and Roster Improvements
Despite the challenges of paying top dollar to several star players, Tobin emphasized that the Bengals are in a good salary cap situation. The team has managed its cap well, with low dead money, allowing them to retain key players while still having room to add new talent. The Bengals are not only focused on re-signing their stars but also on improving the overall roster. Tobin acknowledged that it would be a “tall task” but expressed confidence that the team is up to the challenge.
Tobin also discussed several other topics during his media session, including the defense’s need for improvement. He admitted that the defense had struggled in critical moments and noted that the team would be focusing on strengthening that side of the ball.
Additionally, he expressed interest in re-signing free-agent tight end Mike Gesicki, who he believes is a great fit for the Bengals’ offensive system. Tobin also provided updates on various players, including running back Chase Brown and wide receiver Jermaine Burton, signaling that the team is evaluating their needs and preparing for the future.
The Cincinnati Bengals have reportedly decided to use the non-exclusive franchise tag on wide receiver Tee Higgins for the upcoming offseason. This move ensures that Higgins will remain with the team for another year, but it also comes with financial implications. If he plays under the tag again in 2025, he will earn a guaranteed $26.3 million.
Given that league sources estimate Higgins could have earned over $30 million per year on the open market, Cincinnati faces a tough decision about whether to offer him a long-term deal or risk losing him in the future.
Ja’Marr Chase Seeks Record-Breaking Contract After Dominant, Triple Crown Season
Ja’Marr Chase, the Bengals’ top receiver, is expected to demand an unprecedented contract extension. Fox Sports’ Jordan Schultz reported that Chase is set to command at least $40 million per season, making him the highest-paid wide receiver in NFL history.
Chase’s current contract runs through 2025, and he will earn $21.8 million under his fifth-year option. Given his elite production—leading the league in receptions, yards, and touchdowns last season—it is clear that Cincinnati will have to make a significant financial commitment to keep him happy.
Ja’Marr Chase (NFL)
Chase has already expressed frustration over his contract situation. Before the 2024 season, he held out of training camp in an attempt to secure an extension, and reports suggest he nearly sat out games to strengthen his stance.
Despite failing to reach a deal, Chase delivered his best season yet, securing the prestigious triple crown by leading all receivers in receptions, yards, and touchdowns. His performance only increased his leverage in negotiations, as he now seeks a deal surpassing that of his former LSU teammate Justin Jefferson, who signed a $35 million-per-year extension.
Bengals Face Tough Decisions on Star Receivers Amid Salary Cap Constraints
The Bengals now find themselves in a tricky financial situation, as they must decide whether to retain both Chase and Higgins. While Chase is seeking a record-breaking contract, Higgins’ franchise tag salary already puts a strain on the team’s cap space.
If Cincinnati extends Chase while keeping Higgins, they will be allocating a massive portion of their salary cap to just two receivers. This dilemma forces the Bengals to carefully evaluate their roster-building strategy and consider whether they can afford both players in the long run.
Cincinnati’s financial challenges extend beyond its receiving corps. The team has already committed $55 million per year to quarterback Joe Burrow, which, combined with potential deals for Chase and Higgins, could create a salary cap crunch. The Bengals must balance keeping their offensive stars while maintaining roster depth for a Super Bowl run. Their upcoming contract decisions will have lasting effects on the team’s ability to compete at the highest level in the coming seasons.
The Cincinnati Bengals are working towards fulfilling quarterback Joe Burrow’s wish to keep wide receiver Tee Higgins in the fold for the long term. According to NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero, the Bengals are focused on finalizing a contract extension with Higgins, aiming to avoid the use of a franchise tag.
However, if a deal cannot be reached by the March 4 deadline, the Bengals are likely to tag Higgins for a second consecutive year, which would cost them $26.2 million (120% of last year’s salary). The window for placing the franchise tag opens on February 18, giving the team a limited amount of time to reach an agreement.
Bengals’ Franchise Tag Plans for Tee Higgins and Burrow’s Desire to Keep Him
If the Bengals are forced to place the franchise tag on Higgins, it would ensure his services for another season, unless a trade occurs. However, this move would not prevent the team from negotiating a long-term extension during the offseason. If the franchise tag is applied, the Bengals would have until July 15 to come to terms on a contract extension with Higgins. If no extension is agreed upon by that date, the tag would become permanent, and Higgins would remain on the franchise designation for the entire 2025 season.
Tee Higgins (NFL)
Joe Burrow has been vocal about his desire to keep Higgins as a key part of the Bengals’ offensive core. As the team’s star quarterback, Burrow has repeatedly expressed his wish to maintain the strong connection he shares with Higgins. This support from Burrow has only added urgency to the Bengals’ efforts to lock down Higgins for the long haul. The quarterback’s backing highlights the importance of keeping the duo intact for continued success on the field.
Tee Higgins’ Impact on Bengals’ Offense and Concerns Over Injury History
Higgins, selected in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft alongside Burrow, has made an immediate and lasting impact on the Bengals. He has consistently posted impressive numbers, recording two 1,000-yard receiving seasons and surpassing 900 yards in all but one year.
In the most recent season, Higgins caught 73 passes for 911 yards and a career-high 10 touchdowns. His performance complements that of Ja’Marr Chase, making the Bengals’ receiving corps one of the most dynamic in the NFL. The duo’s synergy is a significant factor in the efficiency of Cincinnati’s offense.
While Higgins has been productive on the field, there are concerns regarding his ability to stay healthy. He has missed five games in each of the last two seasons, largely due to recurring hamstring issues. This injury history has raised some doubts about Higgins’ long-term availability, which may have hindered the Bengals’ willingness to commit to him earlier.
Nevertheless, the team appears to be listening to Burrow’s wishes and is making an effort to retain Higgins. His continued presence is crucial to the Bengals’ offensive success, and his availability for the long term would help maintain the team’s top-tier status in the league.
The Cincinnati Bengals are on a winning streak, securing victories in their last four games leading up to Sunday’s home matchup against the Houston Texans. However, their momentum could face a setback as one of their star receivers, Tee Higgins, is likely to be sidelined for Week 10 and potentially beyond due to a hamstring injury sustained in Wednesday’s practice, as reported by NFL Media.
On a positive note, Ja’Marr Chase, dealing with a back issue after a hard landing in Week 9, returned to practice on Thursday. Chase expressed optimism about playing against the Texans, stating, “In my head, I’m playing. Until further notice and anything else, we’ll see,” according to CLNS Media.
Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase (Credits: Marca)
Chase’s injury occurred during the Bengals’ recent victory over the Bills, where he took a hard fall while attempting a downfield catch. Despite a relatively quiet game against the Bills with four receptions for 41 yards, Chase leads the team with 64 receptions for 697 yards and four touchdowns in eight games.
Higgins, who overcame a recent rib injury, delivered an impressive performance with season-highs of eight receptions for 110 yards in the win over Buffalo. As a 2020 second-round pick, Higgins played a key role in the Bengals’ back-to-back AFC North division titles by posting consecutive 1,000-yard receiving seasons in the past two years.
While Chase and Higgins are irreplaceable, the Bengals have viable alternatives if they have to play without either player on Sunday, with Higgins being the more likely absence. Tyler Boyd, the team’s veteran wideout, remains a reliable target for quarterback Joe Burrow and has scored touchdowns in two of the last three games.
Additional reinforcements include rookie wideout Andrei Iosivas, wideout Trenton Irwin, and the tight end trio of Irv Smith Jr., Drew Sample, and Tanner Hudson, who collectively recorded 10 catches for 101 yards and two touchdowns against the Bills.
In the absence of key receivers, Cincinnati’s offense could also pivot towards a more ground-focused approach, relying on the skills of running back Joe Mixon, who not only contributes in the running game but also ranks fourth on the team in receptions. The Bengals will look to maintain their winning streak and adapt to the challenges posed by the potential absence of key offensive weapons in Week 10.
The Carolina Panthers are reportedly considering acquiring a starting wide receiver to help Bryce Young transition to the NFL. That makes sense, considering the Panthers were all-in on quarterback Young, so to speak.
The Carolina Panthers made a big trade to pick first in the 2023 NFL Draft. They traded their top catcher, DJ Moore, and some future picks to the Chicago Bears. With that top pick, they chose Bryce Young.
Panthers (Credits: Live 5 News)
They also got a new coach named Frank Reich to help Young become better. Bryce Young was picked before other good players like C.J. Stroud and Anthony Richardson.
But Bryce Young’s time in Carolina got off to a shaky start. The Panthers are 0-4 despite Young’s absence. In the three games he has started, the rookie has completed 65% of his pitches, which is solid.
However, he averaged just 167.7 yards per game with two touchdowns and two interceptions. He has been fired 11 times. Add it all up, and you get a passer rating of his meager 75.0.
I’m not bashing Bryce Young: He is still in the early stages of his career, and rookies often reach similar numbers. He needs a little more outside help, and that’s okay.
Adam Thielen is past his prime, D.J. Chark hasn’t had a good season in years, and Jonathan Mingo is still young. So, who are the wide receivers on the trade market that Carolina should pursue?
1. Davante Adams, Las Vegas Raiders
Davante Adams is already frustrated in Las Vegas despite only playing 21 games in a Raiders jersey. He doesn’t think the Raiders are on the right track, and he wants to win now. The Raiders started 1-3, but with few bright spots, they could be in trouble.
If Las Vegas decides to waive Adams (and running back Josh Jacobs), the Panthers will have to make that decision. Adams switched quarterbacks from Aaron Rodgers to Derek Carr last season, and he didn’t miss a beat.
He passed for over 1,500 yards and scored 14 touchdowns. This year, with Jimmy Garoppolo in the backfield, he’s averaging nearly 100 yards per game, a career high.
Davante Adams, Las Vegas Raiders (Credits: Larry Brown Sports)
Adams still has the ability to be the best wide receiver in the NFL, with the possible exception of Justin Jefferson. (P.S. Despite casual posts on social media, the Minnesota Vikings have no intention of trading Jefferson, so he’s not on this list.)
Adams’ contract is expensive, but the Panthers can afford to pay him because the quarterback is on a rookie contract. He would be a game-changer for Bryce Young at every level of the passing game.
2. Michael Thomas, New Orleans Saints
Michael Thomas, New Orleans Saints (Credits: Golf Digest)
Well, the Saints don’t want to trade with a divisional opponent, so this trade probably won’t happen. But I really like the fit on paper, so let’s talk about it. Michael Thomas was arguably the league’s best wide receiver four years ago, but he hasn’t been on the field since. He’s not the same athlete he once was, but his skill and understanding of how to get open are still there.
Thomas has played in all four games for the Saints so far, catching 22 passes for 219 yards. New Orleans has him back on the offensive line, but they no longer rely on him as completely as their former team did.
What I like about this fit for Young is Thomas’ reliability in the short to mid-range of the field. Given his physical attributes, Young was not the first choice. Scouts were impressed with his processing ability and game sense.
To translate that to the NFL, Young will need to get used to getting the ball out quickly and controlling the field from the pocket.
Thomas could be a hot target for Young and the security blanket that many great quarterbacks often have. A goal like this is a huge confidence booster for a rookie quarterback.
3. Courtland Sutton and/or Jerry Jeudy, Denver Broncos
Please select here. The Broncos have been terrible so far this year, and it doesn’t look like they’re getting any better. If Denver is a train wreck before the trade deadline later this month, it could be worth calling up one of these two players.
Jerry Jeudy has solid potential, but he has yet to develop into the player Denver hoped he would be when they drafted him 15th overall in 2020. He set career highs last season with 67 catches for 972 yards and six touchdowns.
Jerry Jeudy, Denver Broncos (Credits: Denver Broncos)
Courtland Sutton put up similar numbers in 2022 but perhaps has a little more potential in the downfield passing game. His best season was 2019, when he gained 1,112 total yards.
These two still have a lot left in the tank and will possibly hit the trading block later this month.
4. Tee Higgins, Cincinnati Bengals
What’s happening in Cincinnati right now? Most believe the Bengals are at least contending for a spot in this year’s Super Bowl and consider Joe Burrow one of the top three quarterbacks in the NFL. Still, the Bengals are 1-3, and Burrow is statistically the worst quarterback in the league to date. He’s worse than Zach Wilson or Daniel Jones.
The Bengals need to figure out what they want to do with Tee Higgins. Of course, they want to keep it, but do they want to write that check? Will they even be able to write this check?
Tee Higgins, Cincinnati Bengals (Credits: Sports Illustrated)
The problem is, Burrow isn’t healthy yet, and Burrow is the franchise for the Bengals. This calf injury may be a bigger problem than Cincinnati realizes. Let’s say Cincinnati considers this season a disaster and shuts down Burrow for a while.
Maybe they move on from Higgins to build for the future rather than being locked into two huge wide receiver contracts. They still have to pay Ja’Marr Chase on what is undoubtedly a record-breaking contract.
Higgins is a very talented football player, and he is only 24 years old! If the Panthers bring him to their team and keep him for a long time, that would be a very smart move. He is so good that he can possibly be the main receiver for many NFL teams. Right now, he is sharing catches with Chase, but if he becomes the main guy, he might do even better!
Fantasy Football 2023 (Credits: Pro Football Network)
As we enter Week 4 of the 2023 NFL season, it is starting to become clear who will be the best players this year and who will disappoint us. But it’s still early.
We still have some things to figure out. There are some popular players I’m changing my mind about (keep reading), but there are some players I still believe in (like Josh Jacobs).
Here are the best people to buy low and sell high in fantasy this week.
Buy Cheap Players
1. Anthony Richardson (Indianapolis Colts QB)
Last week, Minshew Mania came back, and some fantasy managers might not know how well Richardson played in his first two NFL games. In Week 1, he scored 21 pretend football points, and in Week 2, he got 18 points in just one half before getting hurt.
He has been really good at scoring touchdowns so far, getting four already in just a little more than five quarters of play. You might want to think about trading for him now before he becomes even more valuable.
Anthony Richardson, Indianapolis Colts QB (Credits: Stampede Blue)
2. Derrick Henry (Tennessee Titans RB)
The idea that Henry was not good in fantasy performance after one bad game doesn’t make sense. The Browns have a really strong defense, being the best in the whole league in stopping the other team and preventing them from scoring.
Last week, they not only stopped Henry but also the whole Titans team from scoring. But that is okay; it happens sometimes in pretend football. In the first two weeks of the season, Henry got around 14 points against the Saints (who are also good at stopping runners) and about 19 points against the Chargers.
Henry does not have to worry about playing less this season; he is actually in charge of the ball a lot, leading the NFL in team touch percentage, which is how often his team gives him the ball (almost half the time!).
The Titans have a lucrative schedule coming up, and Henry should get over 20 touches per game, as usual. It’s also worth noting that Henry will play against the Texans twice in the fantasy playoffs (Week 15 and Week 17). It’s a defense that Henry has absolutely dominated for years.
3. Karen Williams (Los Angeles Rams RB)
No running back has played more offensive snaps this season than Williams. The second-year pro is playing a whopping 86.1% of the Rams’ offensive snaps, according to Next Gen Stats.
He has also scored the second-highest number of points (19) for his position in 2023. He might not always score points super efficiently, but he scored a lot, and that is really important in fantasy games.
Karen Williams, Los Angeles Rams RB
Even though not many people know him well, and he did not do as well in pretend football in Week 3, he is a hardworking player who might not get noticed as much. Imagine him like a great shirt you find on sale!
4. Tee Higgins (Cincinnati Bengals WR)
Would you believe me if I told you that Tee Higgins achieved as many goals as Mike Evans? Higgins has given up just ten runs in his first three games, so I think it’s hard to understand.
Higgins has had at least eight targets in every game but has averaged less than 25 yards and no touchdowns in two of those three games.
Tee Higgins, Cincinnati Bengals WR
The good news is that over the next three weeks, the Bengals will face three defenses that are ranked last against the pass: the Titans, Cardinals, and Seahawks. This should make things much easier for the Bengals’ passing attack as they look to get back on track. Talent usually comes first, and Higgins’ production should increase as the season progresses.
Sell High Players
1. Alvin Kamara (New Orleans Saints RB)
It may seem strange to trade a player who is returning from a three-game suspension and has yet to play this season, but I think Kamara’s fantasy value may be at its peak.
Many pretend football team managers are looking for a really good runner, and Kamara is a well-known player. People might want to trade him quickly before he plays again on Sunday. But we should remember that Kamara did not score a lot in pretend football last year.
Alvin Kamara, New Orleans Saints RB (Credits: New Orleans Saints)
He did well in some games, but in 10 games, he scored 12 or fewer fantasy points. In five of those, he scored less than eight points. When Chris Olove became a stronger player, it seemed like Kamara might get the ball less in the second part of 2022.
The experienced player will likely still be a good second-best runner for the rest of the season, no matter who the quarterback is. But right now, it might be hard to exchange him for something even better. Something to think about is swapping Kamara for someone like Derrick Henry, another good runner.
2. Cortland Sutton (Denver Broncos WR)
The Dolphins had to play very badly for Sutton to have a really great fantasy day. Sutton has not scored a lot of pretend football points in a single game with Russell Wilson as the starting QB.
Actually, since Wilson started, Sutton has scored 13 points or less in almost every game except for four games. After a good pretend football week, you might think about trading Sutton for a younger player like Tank Dell, who could be even better in the future.
3. Kyle Pitts (Atlanta Falcons TE)
Fantasy team managers really like the idea of having Kyle Pitts in their fantasy team, but he has not been as exciting as they hoped. He is never been a top scorer, and he does not find it as enjoyable.
In more than half of the games he has played since 2022, Pitts has scored less than five pretend football points. He has only scored more than ten fantasy football points twice during this time.
Kyle Pitts, Atlanta Falcons TE
People might think he could do a lot better, but the coach, Arthur Smith, has said that he is not focused on making sure Pitts gets the ball a lot in pretend football games.
The young tight end did quite well in fantasy performance in Week 3, especially compared to how he has been doing. He caught the ball five times and gained 41 yards, which is good for him.
This might make other fantasy team managers think he is more valuable. In your pretend football league, there will always be someone who thinks Kyle Pitts is amazing. If you find that person, you might want to trade with them.
