Report: Higgins requests trade from Bengals

Franchise-tagged wide receiver Tee Higgins has requested a trade from the Cincinnati Bengals, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Higgins wanted to remain in Cincinnati but is disappointed that the Bengals haven't engaged in extension talks since March 2023, adds Schefter.

The 25-year-old received the one-year, $21.8-million tag in late February to keep him from hitting free agency.

Likely complicating Higgins' contract situation is the Bengals' need to pay three-time Pro Bowl wideout Ja'Marr Chase, who has two years left on his rookie deal and will likely require an extension next offseason.

Cincinnati also rewarded star quarterback Joe Burrow with a five-year, $275-million extension last year.

Higgins has excelled as the No. 2 wideout behind Chase. He produced 1,000-yard campaigns in 2021 and 2022 but was limited to 12 appearances last year and finished with 656 yards.

The 2020 second-round pick could be in high demand after the free-agent receiver market was weakened by Mike Evans and Michael Pittman Jr. re-signing with their respective teams.