Tee Higgins is a professional football player and wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals in the National Football League (NFL). Known for his reliable hands, physical playing style, and ability to make contested catches, Higgins has become a key offensive weapon for the Bengals since being drafted in 2020.
Early Life and College Career
Tee Higgins was born on January 18, 1999, in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. He excelled in multiple sports during high school, particularly football and basketball. However, football became his primary focus as he committed to play for Clemson University.
During his time at Clemson, Higgins played from 2017 to 2019 and quickly emerged as a standout receiver. Some of his notable achievements include:
- 2,103 career receiving yards
- 25 receiving touchdowns
- National Championship win in 2018
His impressive performance in college made him one of the top wide receiver prospects entering the 2020 NFL Draft.
NFL Career
Draft and Rookie Season (2020)
Tee Higgins was selected by the Cincinnati Bengals in the second round (33rd overall) of the 2020 NFL Draft. His rookie season saw him make an immediate impact:
- 67 receptions
- 908 yards
- 6 touchdowns
He quickly developed chemistry with then-rookie quarterback Joe Burrow, becoming a key piece of the Bengals’ offensive rebuild.
Breakout Year (2021)
In 2021, Higgins solidified his role as a top-tier receiver, playing alongside fellow wideout Ja’Marr Chase. Despite Chase’s breakout performance, Higgins managed to deliver impressive numbers:
- 74 receptions
- 1,091 yards
- 6 touchdowns
Higgins played a crucial role in the Bengals’ run to Super Bowl LVI, where he scored two touchdowns in the championship game against the Los Angeles Rams.
Continued Success (2022-2024)
Higgins continued his consistent performance through the 2022 and 2023 seasons, recording multiple 1,000-yard receiving seasons. His ability to make contested catches and his size have made him a reliable red-zone target and deep threat for the Bengals.
2024 Season and Recent Injury
As of January 2025, Tee Higgins has been making headlines due to an ankle injury sustained during a critical Week 18 game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Higgins exited the game with a left ankle sprain, later revealed to be a high-ankle sprain.
Despite the injury, Higgins’ performance in the 2024 season has kept him as a critical part of the Bengals’ offensive core alongside Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase.
Contract Situation and Team Chemistry
There has been significant speculation regarding Tee Higgins’ contract situation. Reports suggest that both Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase have publicly expressed their desire for the Bengals to retain Higgins long-term, emphasizing the chemistry and success the trio has brought to the franchise.
Playing Style and Strengths
Tee Higgins is widely regarded for his:
- Exceptional Catch Radius: Thanks to his 6’4″ frame and long arms.
- Contested Catch Ability: Regularly winning jump-ball situations.
- Red Zone Threat: Effective target near the goal line.
- Physical Blocking: Contributing to the run game with his physical blocking skills.
Career Achievements
- Super Bowl Appearance (LVI)
- Multiple 1,000-yard seasons
- Key Contributor to Bengals’ AFC Championship Runs
Personal Life
Off the field, Tee Higgins has remained relatively private but is known for his community involvement and support of youth sports initiatives.
Future Prospects
Despite the recent ankle injury, Higgins remains a vital part of the Bengals’ core. His future in Cincinnati may depend on contract negotiations, but his talent and contributions have solidified his position as one of the league’s most promising young receivers.
Tee Higgins’ journey from Clemson standout to NFL star highlights his hard work, talent, and ability to perform under pressure. If he stays healthy and re-signs with the Bengals, he has the potential to continue being a major force in the league for years to come.
