The New England Patriots are gearing up for a crucial offseason with an abundance of cap space, and all eyes are on Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins. With key team leaders already making their preferences known, the Patriots could be preparing to make a strong push for the star wideout in an attempt to revamp their struggling offense.
Patriots leaders publicly campaign for Tee Higgins.
In a clear show of interest, New England Patriots captain David Andrews and defensive leader Davon Godchaux have both voiced their admiration for Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins. Andrews, speaking on his podcast The Quick Snap, labeled Higgins as his “hero of the week” following the receiver’s electrifying performance against the Denver Broncos. Higgins caught 11 passes for 131 yards and three touchdowns, including the game-winning score in overtime.
“I don’t know if I’ve ever really had a guy, let’s say, that’s like that. A true X receiver,” Andrews said, in what many interpreted as a not-so-subtle recruiting pitch. Godchaux added fuel to the speculation by posting Higgins’ name on social media during the Bengals-Broncos game. These public endorsements point toward a concerted effort by the Patriots to lure the 26-year-old to Foxborough in free agency.
A glaring need: Why Higgins is the perfect fit for New England.
The Patriots have struggled offensively this season, ranking near the bottom of the NFL in both total offense and points per game. Rookie quarterback Drake Maye has shown flashes of potential, but the team lacks a dynamic, game-changing wide receiver to elevate its passing attack. Tee Higgins, who has posted career-highs in yards per game (78.0) and touchdowns (10) this season despite missing five games due to injury, could be exactly the kind of weapon Maye needs to develop into a franchise quarterback.
Compared to the Patriots’ current top receiver, DeMario Douglas, who has 587 yards and three touchdowns over 16 games, Higgins’ production is on another level. His ability to consistently win one-on-one matchups and stretch the field would address a critical weakness in New England’s offense. With $131 million in projected cap space—the most in the NFL—the Patriots are in a prime position to make a competitive offer for Higgins.
Will Higgins consider New England? Experts weigh in.
Despite the Patriots’ financial advantage, some analysts remain skeptical about Higgins’ willingness to sign with New England. Adam London of NESN argues that the Patriots’ current state may not appeal to a player of Higgins’ caliber. “Higgins is not going to take his talents to New England,” London wrote. “Sure, the Patriots appear to have a star quarterback in the making with Drake Maye, but it feels highly unlikely that those selling points will be enough for Higgins to set up shop at One Patriot Place.”
London points to the Bengals’ competitive edge, as Higgins has played a key role in Cincinnati’s postseason runs, including their Super Bowl appearance in his rookie year. With quarterback Joe Burrow and fellow wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase forming one of the NFL’s most dangerous duos, Higgins has consistently been part of a winning environment. Even if the Bengals are unable to offer Higgins a long-term deal due to salary cap constraints, they could consider using the franchise tag again, limiting his ability to test the open market.
Meanwhile, Mike Giardi of the Boston Sports Journal reports that the Patriots are expected to be “heavily involved” in pursuing Higgins if he becomes available. However, he also acknowledges potential roadblocks, including New England’s offensive struggles under coordinator Alex Van Pelt and the lack of a complementary receiver like Chase to draw defensive attention away from Higgins.
What’s next for the Patriots and Tee Higgins?
The Patriots face a pivotal offseason as they attempt to rebuild their roster and return to playoff contention. Adding Tee Higgins would mark a significant step forward, but it remains uncertain whether the star receiver would choose Foxborough over other likely suitors. Higgins’ decision will depend on a variety of factors, including financial terms, team competitiveness, and his fit within the offensive system.
For now, Patriots fans can only hope that the team’s vocal recruiting efforts, substantial cap space, and the promise of a bright future with Drake Maye will be enough to entice Higgins. If the Patriots are successful in their pursuit, it could signal a new era for an offense in dire need of a spark.
