The New England Patriots were anticipated to make a big splash in free agency last year (remember when they planned to spend big?), but ultimately, their efforts didn’t pay off.
Last spring, the Patriots aimed to secure a top wide receiver, setting their sights on Calvin Ridley. However, Ridley chose the Tennessee Titans over New England.
Luckily, the Patriots will get another chance this offseason. With plenty of cap space, they’ll again be able to pursue a star pass-catcher.
Reports suggest that Cincinnati Bengals receiver Tee Higgins is their top target, and this week, they received encouraging news regarding his availability.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler recently shared a list of the top 25 upcoming NFL free agents, noting that Higgins is almost certain to reach the open market.
“There’s little to no chance Higgins is in Cincinnati beyond 2024,” Fowler wrote. “People I’ve spoken to feel strongly about this unless there’s a major surprise.
A second franchise tag would cost the Bengals around $26.2 million for one year.
Higgins wanted out of Cincinnati last offseason, and the Bengals are likely focusing their resources on a [Ja’Marr] Chase contract. Higgins will have a solid market due to the demand for WR1-type players.”
In short, it seems that Higgins will part ways with Cincinnati, giving him the freedom to sign with a new team.
Could New England be that team?
The 25-year-old receiver has been hindered by injuries for a second straight season. He’s appeared in just five games in 2024, with 29 catches for 341 yards and three touchdowns.
Last year, Higgins played in 12 games, recording 42 receptions for 656 yards and five touchdowns.
When healthy, the Clemson product is a powerful offensive weapon, as shown by his back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons in 2021 and 2022.
