Higgins expects to stay with Bengals despite reported trade request

Star receiver Tee Higgins said Sunday he expects to remain with the Cincinnati Bengals for the 2024 campaign despite reportedly requesting a trade earlier in the offseason.

"We'll see. I do anticipate it," said Higgins when asked about staying in Cincinnati, according to Charlie Clifford of WLWT. "I've grown a love for Cincy that I didn't think I would, but (I'm) looking forward to it."

The franchise-tagged wideout was reportedly disappointed that the Bengals haven't engaged in extension talks since March 2023.

If Higgins remains with the Bengals but doesn't get a new deal, he'll play next season on the $21.8-million tag.

Nine players received the franchise tag this offseason, and the 25-year-old Higgins is one of the last two yet to get a long-term extension, alongside Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Antoine Winfield Jr.

Higgins had back-to-back 1,000-yard campaigns in 2021 and 2022 but finished with 656 yards last season after being limited to just 12 games.