The New England Patriots are actively seeking to upgrade their roster after a difficult 2024 season that saw them finish with a disappointing 4-13 record. With free agency opening and the draft approaching, the Patriots are focused on improving several key areas, including their wide receiver group.
Strengthening the receiving corps has become a priority for New England as they look to provide young quarterback Drake Maye with better weapons in the passing game. Maye’s rookie season had its ups and downs, with the first-year signal-caller throwing for 2,276 yards, 15 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. Heading into his second year, the Patriots want to surround Maye with reliable pass-catchers to help accelerate his development.
One name that has surfaced as a potential target for the Patriots is Cincinnati Bengals receiver Tee Higgins. Higgins is coming off a strong 2024 campaign in which he posted 911 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns, showcasing his ability to be a productive playmaker. However, while there’s clear interest in his talent, there’s also some hesitation around the league regarding his overall value — especially when considering the large contract he’s expected to command.
According to Phil Perry of NBC Sports Boston, some evaluators see Higgins as a high-quality receiver, but not necessarily one of the elite players at his position. “Many see him as a No. 1 type, but not a top-five player at his position — even if he’ll end up being paid as one if he gets to the market,” Perry reported.
Complicating matters for New England’s pursuit is Cincinnati’s decision to place the franchise tag on Higgins for the second consecutive year. This move significantly reduces the chances of Higgins actually hitting the open market, forcing the Patriots to explore other options at receiver.
Opinions on Higgins’ value are divided, with one anonymous NFC receivers coach offering a particularly blunt assessment. “You’re going to have to pay him like a No. 1,” the coach said, “and he ain’t a (expletive) No. 1.”
With Higgins likely staying in Cincinnati, the Patriots will need to shift their attention to other available receivers as they work to upgrade their offense and give Maye a better supporting cast for the 2025 season.