Commanders favorite with Land Tee Higgins

As the NFL trade deadline approaches, the spotlight is on Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins. The talented wideout, who played a key role in the Bengals’ offense, has found himself at the center of trade rumors due to his uncertain future with the team. As Cincinnati balances its financial commitments — most notably a potential long-term extension for fellow wideout Ja’Marr Chase — the prospect of trading Higgins has become a hot topic. Among the teams reportedly in the mix, the Washington Commanders have emerged as the clear favorites to acquire the 25-year-old receiver, positioning themselves for a bold move to bolster their offense.

Odds for Tee Higgins’ next team

• Washington commanders: +191 (52.4%)
• Pittsburgh Steelers: +300 (25%)
• Tennessee titans: +300 (25%)
• New England Patriots: +500 (16.7%)
• Baltimore Ravens: +1500 (6.3%)

Why the commanders lead the platoon

The commanders’ interest in Tee Higgins makes perfect sense from a roster-building perspective. With Terry McLaurin already established as their top wide receiver, adding Higgins would create a formidable duo, boosting Washington’s offensive firepower. Higgins’ size, contested catching ability and skill as a deep threat would fit perfectly into Kliff Kingsbury’s offensive schemes, which rely heavily on big plays and vertical threats from the outside.

Higgins would be an ideal weapon for Jayden Daniels, who needs help at the receiver position. Washington has the space to offer Higgins the kind of lucrative deal he is likely looking for, making them an attractive destination from both a football and financial perspective.

The other contenders

While the Commanders are the current favorites, several other teams remain in the mix. The Pittsburgh Steelers have also been linked to Higgins, although an intra-division trade would be a major hurdle. Pairing Higgins with George Pickens would give the Steelers two dynamic receiving options, but the Bengals could be hesitant to add a division rival.

The Tennessee titans are also a strong candidate, especially given their need for a top-tier wide receiver. Higgins’ previous relationship with Titans head coach Brian Callahan, who was his offensive coordinator in Cincinnati, could make Tennessee an attractive landing spot. The Titans are looking to boost their offense, and Higgins could immediately be their best option in the passing game.

The New England Patriotswhile less likely, have the cap space and need for a game-changing receiver. Higgins would give their struggling offense a much-needed boost as the team continues to search for a top playmaker. Meanwhile, the Baltimore Ravens is a long shot considering they just landed Diontae Johnson to bolster their receiving room.

Why it makes sense for the Bengals to trade Higgins

While Tee Higgins is undeniably a valuable part of Cincinnati’s offense, the Bengals are faced with financial realities that make a trade increasingly logical. With Ja’Marr Chase likely to land a huge contract in the near future, the Bengals may struggle to keep both receivers under long-term deals. By trading Higgins now, they could recoup draft picks or other assets that could help replenish their roster for the future.

Furthermore, Higgins will become a free agent after this season, and if the Bengals fail to extend him, they risk losing him for nothing. Cincinnati’s slow start to the season (3-5) has only amplified the trade rumors, as the team may look to refocus on the future instead of pushing for a deep playoff run this year. By trading Higgins, the Bengals can free up cap space and focus on building around their other key players, while also securing value for a player they could lose in free agency.