WHO DEY! Bengals May Trade Elite WR in Coming Weeks if the Wheels Continue to Fall Off the Wagon
The Cincinnati Bengals are in a tough position, and wide receiver Tee Higgins could be traded if the team continues to struggle. Despite being considered one of the top rosters in the NFL at the start of the season, the Bengals head into Week 4 with a disappointing 0-3 record after close losses to the New England Patriots, Kansas City Chiefs, and Washington Commanders. Their -12 point differential indicates they’re performing better than their record suggests, but they’ve still put themselves in a difficult spot, and another loss could essentially end their season.
They’ll be looking for their first win against former teammate Andy Dalton and the Carolina Panthers. Dalton had a standout performance in Week 3, completing 26 of 37 passes for 319 yards, three touchdowns, and no interceptions. While it might have been a one-off, if Dalton continues playing at this level against a struggling Bengals defense, Cincinnati could fall to 0-4. Given that Higgins is unlikely to return in 2025, the Bengals may look to trade him and capitalize on his value if the 2024 season becomes unsalvageable. The Los Angeles Chargers and New Orleans Saints are likely candidates to pursue the 25-year-old playmaker.
Bengals Could Trade Tee Higgins to Chargers, Saints In Coming Weeks
In 2024, passing offenses are generally declining, which works in favor of the Los Angeles Chargers. Jim Harbaugh has transformed their defense into one of the league’s top units, and J.K. Dobbins has rejuvenated his career in California. However, for the Chargers to consistently win games, they’ll eventually need to rely on their passing game, and their current group isn’t up to the task. Justin Herbert is dealing with several injuries, and the inexperienced pair of Quentin Johnston and second-round pick Ladd McConkey aren’t capable of compensating for his reduced effectiveness. To compete at a higher level, the team needs a proven veteran, and Tee Higgins could be the answer.
The Chargers cut ties with Mike Williams and Keenan Allen in the offseason due to their high salaries not aligning with their production. While the younger receivers are holding their own, the Chargers’ passing game remains below league averages in most categories. While Higgins has had his own injury issues, a trade for him could elevate Herbert’s performance. With the Kansas City Chiefs not appearing as dominant as they have in the past, a receiver like Higgins could be the boost Los Angeles needs to contend, assuming Herbert stays healthy enough to take advantage of the upgrade.
The All-In Saints
The New Orleans Saints started their season with two of the most dominant victories you’ll see, and although they came back down to reality against the Philadelphia Eagles, the team clearly believes they have championship potential. To take their performance to the next level, they should consider trading for Tee Higgins. Derek Carr had a fantastic start, but he typically thrives when he has a strong supporting cast. While Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed form a solid receiving duo, adding a third top-tier option could be the key to elevating this offense.
First-year offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak has already worked wonders with the current lineup, but a trade for Higgins could unlock even more potential. Olave is a versatile receiver, and Shaheed excels as a deep threat, but adding a perimeter receiver and jump-ball expert like Higgins could help address Carr’s historical struggles in the red zone. If they can fix this aspect of his game, the Saints’ offense could reach new heights.