Packers Missed the Opportunity: How the Bengals’ Franchise Tag “STOLE” Tee Higgins from Green Bay?

A Golden Opportunity Lost
The Green Bay Packers had a chance to add a legitimate star to their receiving corps, but that opportunity slipped away when the Cincinnati Bengals placed the franchise tag on Tee Higgins. The move ensured that the talented wideout remains in Cincinnati for at least another season, but for Green Bay, it marked a painful “what if” moment in their pursuit of offensive firepower.

Why Tee Higgins Was a Perfect Fit for Green Bay
With the development of quarterback Jordan Love as the Packers’ new leader, adding a proven playmaker like Higgins could have elevated the team to a new level. Standing at 6’4″ with elite hands and route-running ability, Higgins would have provided the kind of size and skill that Green Bay’s young receiving corps currently lacks. His presence alongside Christian Watson, Romeo Doubs, and Jayden Reed could have transformed the Packers’ passing attack into one of the most dangerous in the NFC.

The Bengals’ Move to Keep Their Star
While rumors swirled about Cincinnati potentially letting Higgins walk in free agency, the Bengals made it clear they weren’t willing to lose their second-best receiver. By applying the franchise tag, they effectively blocked any team—including the Packers—from making a serious push to acquire him. It was a strategic move by Cincinnati, ensuring that Joe Burrow still has two top-tier weapons in Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase.

Did the Packers Move Too Slowly?
If Green Bay truly wanted Higgins, they may have waited too long to act. A blockbuster trade could have been an option before Cincinnati locked him down, but the Packers remained conservative. Green Bay has been known for its careful approach in free agency and trades, but in this case, their patience may have cost them a game-changing player.

What This Means for the Packers’ Offense
With Higgins off the table, the Packers will need to look elsewhere for help at wide receiver. They could explore free agency, target a top prospect in the NFL Draft, or bank on their young core developing into a top-tier unit. While Watson and Doubs have flashed potential, neither has yet proven to be a dominant, go-to receiver like Higgins.

A Lesson for the Future
Green Bay’s front office has built a reputation for playing the long game, but in the modern NFL, sometimes aggression is necessary to compete with elite teams. Missing out on Higgins serves as a reminder that waiting for the perfect opportunity can sometimes mean losing out entirely. If the Packers want to take the next step in the NFC, they may need to take more risks—before another superstar slips through their fingers.