The Cincinnati Bengals began their organized team activities recently. However, two of the team’s star players are not currently taking part in this portion of the offseason program; wide receivers Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase. Higgins had the franchise tag placed on him by the organization in March.
He has yet to sign his franchise tender and it would be a mild surprise to see him on the practice field until then. The deadline for franchise-tagged players to sign a long-term deal is July 15th. That is a situation people are keeping a close eye on as Higgins requested a trade from the Cincinnati Bengals earlier this offseason.
Chase is also in line for a massive contract, as he is eligible for an extension for the first time. The No. 5 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft has been dominant the first three seasons of his career.
He has made the Pro Bowl each season and could reset the wide receiver market with his next contract. Right now, he and Justin Jefferson are in similar positions. Jefferson, who has been in the NFL one season longer, is seeking an unprecedented extension from the Minnesota Vikings.
The Cincinnati Bengals could be waiting for that deal to get done so the market for Chase is set. While fans may be nervous about two of the most important players on the team being absent, head coach Zach Taylor isn’t too worried. These are voluntary workouts and he doesn’t believe their absence will set the offense back.
“[They] are still working hard elsewhere, a.
