Tee Higgins of the Cincinnati Bengals is being hailed as the most sought-after free agent during the NFL offseason in 2025. Higgins is linked to many teams in the NFL who are looking to strengthen their receiving group.
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Recent reports have intensified speculation, but they suggest that the Cincinnati Bengals will work to extend Higgins’ contract in order to maintain his top target. This is due to quarterback Joe Burrow wanting him around. Higgins could still choose to evaluate the market, even though he has a great offer.
In this context, it has been suggested that Higgins could be headed to a major NFC competitor.
Matt Bowen, an ESPN analyst who specializes in free-agent analysis, recently projected that Tee Higgins would be better suited to the Washington Commanders.
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Bowen explains that “the Commanders would be able to create a powerful receiving duo if they paired Higgins up with Terry McLaurin,” giving Jayden daniels two real difference-makers outside. Higgins is a 6-foot-4, 219-pound player who has the ability to succeed at any of the three routes in the offensive scheme designed by Kliff Kingsbury. Daniels will be the primary target of Higgins, who has 23 touchdowns as a red zone receiver in his career. Higgins, despite being injured and limited to only 12 games during the 2024 NFL season, still had an impressive 73 catches for 911 yards.
Washington Commanders’ surprising revival last year led to the idea that they were just a couple of key players away from being legitimate Super Bowl candidates. Terry McLaurin may be a proven receiver of the highest caliber, but the depth in Washington’s receiving room behind him is perceived to be lacking.
McLaurin was the top receiver for the Commanders with 1,096 yards. Veteran tight end Zach Ertz came in second with 654 yardage. Higgins would instantly give the Commanders the dynamic, potentially explosive tandem of wide receivers that the NFL is known for.
Higgins and Daniels have a diverse set of skills that would make a powerful combination. Higgins, who stands at 6’4″, is a deep threat with the capability to catch contested passes in traffic and has dependable yards after catching ability for intermediate routes.
Kliff Kliffsbury also benefited the Commanders by retaining his services. He was considered for a number of head coaching positions in the off-season. Kingsbury is back and can now refine his offensive plan, integrating Higgins in a highly-motivated unit.
This scenario is dependent on Higgins rejecting a Bengals long-term contract offer, which still remains a viable option given his potential as a WR1. Higgins had 911 yards of receiving in 12 games last year, which further bolstered his status as a high-level receiver. Higgins may very well end up wearing the Commanders’ uniform next year if Cincinnati offers a deal below market value.
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