After weeks of rumors, speculation, franchise tags, and trade requests, the Cincinnati Bengals made a huge statement by locking in both of their star receivers with massive contract extensions.
After the details of both deals were announced, former NFL quarterback Dan Orlovsky responded with surprise and predicted a tough challenge ahead for the AFC contenders.
Bengals Extend Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase to Massive Deals
It was widely expected that Ja’Marr Chase would become the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history this offseason after Bengals general manager Duke Tobin hinted at it during the NFL Combine.
Tobin also stated in that press conference that the team wanted to sign Tee Higgins to a long-term deal. However, that seemed unlikely after the Bengals placed the franchise tag on Higgins just days later — a move Higgins himself acknowledged on social media.
But that move appears to have been a strategic play to keep Higgins off the free agent market while negotiations continued. Now, with both deals finalized, the Bengals have committed significant financial resources to their receiving corps.
While it took an eye-popping amount of money to secure both players, the Bengals have locked in what many consider the NFL’s most dangerous passing attack for the next four years.
Score: pic.twitter.com/nkFbseGO8n
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter)
Dan Orlovsky ‘Shocked’ at Deal, Issues Warning to Bengals Front Office
While retaining an elite offense, the decision does raise questions about the team’s ability to address other key areas. Joe Burrow led the league in passing yards and touchdowns in 2024, while Chase won the receiving triple crown. Yet, both watched the playoffs from home after Cincinnati struggled early in the season and failed to recover.
The financial commitment to Chase and Higgins also complicates the Bengals’ efforts to retain star pass rusher Trey Hendrickson, who has been granted permission to seek a trade after failing to reach a new contract agreement. The 2024 NFL sack leader’s potential departure would further weaken a defense that already struggled last season.
Wow. Shocked they kept Tee…
Both players earned their money.
Cincy better become the best front office in league when it comes to identity, draft & develop. https://t.co/i3TptbP59I
— Dan Orlovsky (@danorlovsky7)
Orlovsky acknowledged that both receivers deserved their new deals but was surprised the Bengals opted to extend both. In his view, Cincinnati will now need to have an exceptional draft to fill out the rest of the roster.
The Bengals’ defense allowed the seventh-most points (434, tied) during the 2024 regular season while giving up the seventh-most rushing touchdowns (20, tied) and the fourth-most passing touchdowns (30).
If Cincinnati hopes to return to the playoffs and ultimately contend for a Super Bowl, they’ll need significant defensive improvements. With the bulk of their salary cap tied up in their passing attack, Orlovsky’s point holds weight — even if it may be slightly exaggerated.
Time will tell if the Bengals’ decision to go all-in on their offense was the right one. For now, though, Cincinnati’s passing game is the envy of the NFL.
