The Cincinnati Bengals are facing renewed scrutiny as discussions about roster value continue across the NFL. Tee Higgins, one of their top offensive playmakers, has become a focal point in that conversation heading into the 2026 season.
Just recently, Higgins has been labeled the most overpaid player on Cincinnati’s roster, raising questions about his contract relative to production. The evaluation comes as teams across the league reassess financial commitments following recent roster moves.
Cincinnati Bengals, Tee Higgins, NFL
Wide receiver Tee Higgins (5) celebrates a touchdown reception in the second quarter of the NFL Week 14 game between the Buffalo Bills and Cincinnati at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park, N.Y., on Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025.
Higgins has been a key contributor to Cincinnati’s offense, providing a reliable target in the passing game. His size, catch radius and ability to win contested throws have made him an important complement within the team’s receiving corps.
Despite those strengths, critics have pointed to inconsistencies and availability concerns when evaluating his overall value. The gap between his salary and the level of sustained elite production expected from top-tier receivers has fueled the debate.
NFL Analysis Names Tee Higgins as Cincinnati Bengals’ Most Overpaid Player
Cincinnati Bengals, Tee Higgins
Wide receiver Tee Higgins (5) reacts to scoring a touchdown in the second quarter of the NFL game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Pittsburgh Steelers at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati on Oct. 16, 2025.
Higgins was recently identified as Cincinnati’s most overpaid player for next season. This is detailed more in an analysis by Brad Gagnon for Bleacher Report.
For the third consecutive season, Cincinnati’s “other” receiver is the clear-cut “winner” here. Higgins did score a career-high 11 touchdowns in 2025, but he fell short of 1,000 yards for the third year in a row. It’s wild that he’s one of the 12 highest-paid receivers in the league with a $28.8 million AAV.
The Bengals have built their identity around a high-powered offense, making decisions at the wide receiver position especially significant. Balancing financial investment with on-field impact is critical as the team looks to remain competitive in a demanding conference.
As the season approaches, Higgins’ performance will be closely monitored in light of these expectations. His ability to deliver consistently at a high level could reshape the narrative, while continued questions may keep the spotlight on his contract.