In recent weeks, commentators in NFL mock drafts have increasingly favored the Detroit Lions selecting a wide receiver in the first round. Nick Wright of Fox Sports had a similar forecast, but did not expect the Lions to choose a wide receiver. Instead, Wright predicted the Lions will deal for Cincinnati Bengals wideout Tee Higgins.
In his most recent mock draft, Wright advocated that the Lions trade the Bengals the No. 29 overall choice in the first round for Higgins.
The Bengals applied the franchise tag to Higgins at the start of NFL free agency. However, Cincinnati might still deal the 25-year-old receiver this summer since his prospective contract extension is tricky.
The Bengals have until July 15 to sign Higgins to a long-term contract. If he plays with the franchise tag in 2024, he will earn $21.8 million.
Last season, Higgins had 42 receptions for 656 yards and 5 touchdowns in 12 games.
How WR Tee Higgins Can Fit With the Lions
Given how effectively the Lions addressed their defensive concerns in free agency, they may attempt to acquire another offensive weapon in the first round this year. If that’s the case, it’s worth considering whether Detroit might prefer a proven alternative in Higgins.
He had generally career-low stats in 2023, but he missed five games due to an injury. Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow was likewise less than healthy to begin the season, and then sat out the second half of the year.
Higgins, who plays opposite Amon-Ra St. Brown, has the potential to exceed 1,000 receiving yards. He had 1,000-yard seasons in 2021 and 2022 while playing with fellow receiver Ja’Marr Chase.
However, the Lions will need to be confident in their new defensive signings before using their first-round pick on a receiver. Although cornerbacks Carlton Davis and Amik Robertson, as well as defensive linemen Marcus Davenport and D.J. Reader, are welcome additions, they may not be in Detroit for the long term.
How likely are the Bengals to trade Higgins?
Despite the fact that the Bengals slapped the franchise tag on Higgins, rumors about him have persisted. However, that does not guarantee he will be traded.
If Higgins leaves in free agency next summer, the Bengals will earn a third-round compensation draft pick in 2026. That could be enough to make Cincinnati reconsider moving on from Higgins right now.
