Tee Higgins’ officially contract extension with the Bengals: Can he and Joe Burrow bring a Super Bowl winning?

The Cincinnati Bengals have officially secured Tee Higgins, their star wide receiver, with a massive contract extension, ensuring that he remains a key part of the team’s offensive core. The new deal, worth $115 million over four years, cements Higgins’ future in Cincinnati and solidifies one of the most dangerous receiving duos in the NFL alongside Ja’Marr Chase.

With Joe Burrow at quarterback and a reinforced offense, the Bengals are making a clear statement: they are all in on winning a Super Bowl. But what does this deal mean for the team, the salary cap, and the franchise’s future?

Tee Higgins’ New Contract: The Details

Higgins’ contract extension, finalized in March 2025, ensures he will be wearing a Bengals uniform through the 2028 season.

Key Contract Details:

• Total Contract Value: $115 million

• Length: 4 years (2025–2028)

• Guaranteed Money: $40.9 million

• Average Annual Salary: $28.75 million

• 2025 Cap Hit: $26.56 million

In the upcoming season, Higgins will earn:

• Base Salary: $13.8 million

• Roster Bonus: $5 million

• Restructure Bonus: $15 million

• Workout Bonus: $100,000

These numbers place Higgins among the highest-paid wide receivers in the league, a testament to his importance to the Bengals’ offense.

Higgins’ Impact on the Bengals’ Offense

Tee Higgins has been an integral part of Cincinnati’s high-powered offense since being drafted in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft. His size (6’4”, 220 lbs), strong hands, and ability to make contested catches have made him a reliable target for Joe Burrow.

Over his career, Higgins has recorded:

• 330 receptions

• 4,595 receiving yards

• 34 touchdowns

His connection with Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase has given the Bengals one of the most potent passing attacks in the league. With Higgins locked in for the next four years, Cincinnati ensures stability and continuity at the wide receiver position.

An Emotional Moment for Higgins

During his press conference, Higgins fought back tears as he dedicated this contract extension to his late father, Eric, who passed away in 2022.

“This is for pops. I know he’s looking down proud of me.”

Higgins also mentioned his mother, Camilla Stewart, stating that the deal would allow him to take care of her for life. His emotional reaction showcased how much this moment meant to him—it was more than just a contract; it was a dream realized.

What This Means for the Bengals’ Salary Cap

While locking in Higgins is a win for the Bengals, it also creates challenges when it comes to managing their salary cap. The team recently extended Ja’Marr Chase, which means Cincinnati now has two of the league’s highest-paid receivers on its roster.

Financial Breakdown of the Bengals’ Top Contracts:

• Joe Burrow: $275 million (5 years)

• Ja’Marr Chase: $140 million (5 years)

• Tee Higgins: $115 million (4 years)

With this much money allocated to the passing game, Cincinnati’s front office must be strategic in how they structure future contracts. Critics argue that the Bengals may have limited their ability to sign key players at other positions, particularly on defense.

Comparing the Bengals’ Strategy to Other Super Bowl Teams

The Bengals’ decision to invest heavily in their offensive core mirrors strategies used by Super Bowl-winning teams of the past.

For example, the 2006 Indianapolis Colts built their championship team around:

• Peyton Manning (QB)

• Marvin Harrison (WR)

• Reggie Wayne (WR)

Similarly, the 2022 Kansas City Chiefs prioritized their passing attack with:

• Patrick Mahomes (QB)

• Travis Kelce (TE)

By keeping Higgins, Chase, and Burrow together, Cincinnati is betting on elite offensive firepower to carry them to a Super Bowl victory.

How Higgins’ Deal Affects the NFL Wide Receiver Market

Higgins’ extension has set a new benchmark for upcoming wide receiver contracts. With his $28.75 million annual salary, other star receivers will likely seek similar deals.

Upcoming Receivers Seeking New Contracts:

• CeeDee Lamb (Cowboys)

• Justin Jefferson (Vikings)

• Brandon Aiyuk (49ers)

The NFL’s wide receiver market continues to explode, with teams willing to spend top dollar on elite pass catchers.

Can the Bengals Win a Super Bowl with This Core?

With Higgins, Chase, and Burrow locked in, Cincinnati’s Super Bowl window is wide open. However, there are key areas that still need improvement:

Keys to a Bengals Super Bowl Run in 2025:

1. Offensive Line Improvements – Protecting Burrow is priority #1.

2. Defensive Upgrades – Strengthening the pass rush and secondary.

3. Coaching Adjustments – Better game management in big moments.

4. Health & Durability – Avoiding injuries late in the season.

Final Thoughts: A Move That Defines the Bengals’ Future

By signing Tee Higgins to a long-term extension, the Bengals have made their intentions clear:

• They are committed to offensive dominance.

• They believe Higgins, Chase, and Burrow can deliver a championship.

• They are willing to spend big to keep their core together.

This move has excited Bengals fans, reassured Joe Burrow, and positioned Cincinnati as a legitimate Super Bowl contender for years to come.

With the pieces in place, it’s now up to the team and coaching staff to deliver.

Final question: Will this investment lead the Bengals to their first Super Bowl victory?  Only time will tell!