The Tee Conundrum

[Bengalbug]

(11 hours ago)ochocincos Wrote: Every year, there are usually a handful of early-round pass catchers who make quality contributions as rookies.

Just this year...
MHJ - 546-6
Nabers - 671-3
Odunze - 518-1
Bowers - 744-3 (This is one heck of a draft pick for LV, especially given their QB room)
BTJ - 689-5
McConkey - 615-4
Coleman - 417-3 (missed a couple games with injury)

I am of the opinion the Bengals could get a really good safety and/or pass rusher with the money it will cost to tag/retain Higgins again and instead use a 1st or 2nd round draft pick on a WR to replace him.
The Bengals don't seem to do too well developing defensive draft picks (especially pass rushers) and will probably have more luck getting immediate contributions from a pass catcher instead.

Plus, a pass catcher on a 4-5 year rookie deal should mean Chase could be extended for a 3-4 year deal and not really have any overlap of two big pass catcher contracts.

4 of the ten you listed were top 10 picks. You can play this game, but there is a ying to the yang you are describing. Plus it’s not just replace Tee, it’s replace Tee and bring in more to upgrade the WR room.

Xavier worthy, Ricky pearsall, Xavier Legette, Jalynn Polk and AD Mitchell are the other WRs drafted round 1 and 2 this year.

If we end up with a top 12 pick, you might be able to get 80% production of a healthy Tee Higgins. Outside of that, it’s 50/50 if he will amount to much.