Duke Tobin, the Bengals’ de facto general manager and director of player personnel, faced a barrage of questions at the NFL Combine in Indianapolis. The hot topic on everyone’s minds: how the Bengals plan to re-sign their trio of stars—Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Trey Hendrickson. Despite the repetitive nature of the inquiries, Tobin exuded confidence in the Bengals’ ambitious goal to secure all three key players, with Chase potentially becoming the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history.
Financially, the Bengals are in a favorable position with $58.1 million in effective salary cap space for 2025, ranking eighth in the league. Their low dead money of just $2.3 million further underscores their flexibility. Tobin emphasized the team’s commitment to rewarding their players and expressed determination to make it happen.
The Path to Re-Signing
The first step in this high-stakes endeavor is securing a deal with Tee Higgins, who is set to become an unrestricted free agent. While the franchise tag is an option, it would count the full amount against the salary cap, potentially hindering the team’s financial agility. Higgins is seeking a long-term deal exceeding $30 million in average annual value to solidify his place among the top receivers in the league.
Following Higgins, the spotlight shifts to Ja’Marr Chase, whose expected contract could surpass $35 million per year, setting a new benchmark for non-quarterback contracts. With an impressive track record, including 35 sacks in the past two seasons, Trey Hendrickson is also poised to reset the market for his position. These significant investments aim to bolster the Bengals’ roster and address defensive deficiencies that plagued the team in previous seasons.
Building a Stronger Future
By finalizing contracts for their star players, the Bengals aim to enhance their defensive capabilities and fortify the team for a playoff push. Tobin emphasized the importance of not only retaining key talents but also adding new pieces to elevate the team’s performance. With quarterback Joe Burrow’s cap number set to increase significantly next season, strategic contract negotiations can ensure long-term success for the franchise.
Looking ahead, the Bengals’ ambitious plan is a testament to their commitment to building a competitive roster and rewarding top performers. As the offseason unfolds, the team’s efforts to secure their stars and strengthen key areas of need will shape their trajectory for the upcoming season.
Ben Arthur, an NFL reporter for FOX Sports, brings insights and analysis to the evolving landscape of professional football. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the game, Arthur provides a unique perspective on the strategic decisions and player dynamics that drive success in the NFL. Stay tuned for more updates and in-depth coverage as the Bengals navigate the intricacies of contract negotiations and roster development.
As the Bengals navigate the complexities of contract negotiations and roster management, their commitment to securing key players and building a competitive team reflects a bold vision for the future of the franchise. With strategic planning and financial acumen, the team aims to position itself for success on and off the field, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.
