The possibility of Tee Higgins joining the Tennessee Titans becomes more challenging with the Cincinnati Bengals applying the franchise tag, signaling their intent to retain him for the foreseeable future.

The Cincinnati Bengals have reportedly chosen to franchise tag Tee Higgins, complicating his potential reunion with Tennessee Titans coach Brian Callahan. If an agreement on a long-term contract isn’t reached by March 5, the 25-year-old Oak Ridge, TN native is set to receive $21.8 million for the 2024 season. Higgins, a standout wide receiver, ranks high in various free agency listings, showcasing his impressive performance during his four seasons with the Bengals under Callahan’s offensive coordination. This franchise tag move prevents Higgins from entering the open market when free agency officially begins on March 13.

During Super Bowl week, Higgins expressed openness to playing for the Titans under Callahan, citing the appeal of returning home and working with a coach he’s familiar with. However, a potential scenario could involve Higgins receiving a non-exclusive offer, allowing him to negotiate with other teams while giving the Bengals the right to match any offer. If Higgins signs with another team and the Bengals decline to match, they would be entitled to receive two first-round picks from the signing team. Given the Titans’ current rebuilding phase with a new coaching staff and general manager Ran Carthon in his second season, the prospect of giving up two first-round picks for Higgins may pose a significant challenge.