Tee Higgins ranks as the NFL’s top upcoming free agent heading into 2025

A lot of teams are doing to be interested in Higgins.

Tee Higgins is poised to become one of the most sought-after names in the NFL free-agent market this offseason, with numerous outlets unanimously ranking him as the top player available. After a drawn-out contract saga with the Cincinnati Bengals, the Clemson alum has made a convincing case for a massive payday.

Higgins entered Saturday’s game with 58 catches, 727 yards, and seven touchdowns, but his performance against the Denver Broncos was a statement. He delivered a career-best game, racking up 11 receptions for 131 yards and three touchdowns, including the game-winning 3-yard snag in overtime to seal a 30-24 victory. Higgins also came up big earlier in the game with a crucial 31-yard grab during the decisive drive, showcasing his ability to dominate in clutch moments.

Despite battling injuries in recent seasons, Higgins has consistently demonstrated WR1 traits when on the field. Over his first three years in Cincinnati, he averaged over 1,000 receiving yards per season and remains a reliable playmaker in key moments. Sports Illustrated projects Higgins could command an annual salary of at least $25 million, a testament to his elite skill set and value to receiver-needy teams.

The Bengals face significant financial decisions in the coming months. With a second franchise tag for Higgins projected at $26.2 million and a lucrative extension likely for Ja’Marr Chase, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler has indicated there is little chance Higgins remains in Cincinnati beyond 2024. Higgins skipped portions of OTAs this offseason, signaling his desire for a long-term deal elsewhere.

Joining Higgins in the free-agent spotlight is fellow Clemson standout DeAndre Hopkins, who ranks as high as No. 14 on boards from PFF and CBS. Hopkins, now with the Kansas City Chiefs, has proven he can still deliver at a high level after a midseason trade from the Tennessee Titans. As Clemson continues to produce top-tier receivers, Higgins and Hopkins reinforce the program’s reputation as “WRU.”

\With his combination of size, skill, and production, Higgins is primed to reset the market for top receivers, making him one of the most intriguing players to watch in the offseason.