The franchise tag is a placeholder that could be used for one of three reasons: the Bengals are looking to run it back after missing the playoffs in 2024, they want to buy time to hammer out a long-term extension or they’re considering trading Higgins and don’t want to risk losing him for nothing.

Updated wide receiver rankings for Dynasty leagues

Yahoo fantasy analyst Matt Harmon and NFL reporter Jori Epstein sit down at the NFL scouting combine in Indianapolis to discuss the potential options for the Bengals wide receiver -- and why Cincinnati's likely franchise tag could open up the market for the five-year veteran.

Mike Vrabel and New England Patriots brass descend on Indianapolis this week for an up-close look at prospects and a chance to interview the players the Pats will consider with the No. 4 overall pick. It’s also a chance to mingle with agents before free agency and chat with fellow executives as the trade market picks up.

The Cincinnati Bengals could very well decide to franchise tag star wide receiver Tee Higgins in hopes of retaining him for at least one more season. Higgins agrees to play under it in an ideal world,

There could be at least one more wide receiver joining that list. Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins is the top-ranked free agent set to hit the market this offseason, according to USA TODAY Sports' Nate Davis. Higgins has a decent chance of matching or surpassing the $30 million AAV mark that denotes the top tier of NFL receivers.

It's likely Cincinnati places the franchise tag on the wide receiver, but if they don't, would the Patriots be willing to offer him a big contract?