Bengals receiver Tee Higgins, still suffering from a hamstring injury, missed practice again on Thursday, making it almost certain he’ll sit out a second consecutive game. The ailment, which he sustained during practice on September 5th, has definitely thrown a wrench in his plans.
Addressing the Controversy
Higgins has been vocal about the rumor mill spinning out of control. In a heartfelt interview, he exclaimed, “I just don’t understand why fans think I’m faking an injury, when the deadline for a contract extension has already passed.” He clarified emphatically, “It doesn’t make sense to me.” The star receiver’s contract status remains unchanged, and by rule, negotiations can’t resume until the end of the season.
The Contract Saga
Let’s set the record straight: the deadline for signing a long-term deal was July 15th. Higgins is set to make a hefty $21.8 million this season, but frustrations have simmered as he sought a contract extension during the past two offseasons and even requested a trade in March. Talk about a telenovela!
From High Hopes to Hamstring Hassles
Before the injury report last Thursday, Higgins had told everyone he felt “amazing” and was “ready to go” for the season. However, he didn’t practice on Friday, and by Sunday’s game against the Patriots, he was inactive, contributing to the Bengals’ loss.
“I prepare myself to go out here and dominate, start of Week 1.” Higgins lamented, “Unfortunately, four days before the game, I have a hamstring tweak that I didn’t think was as bad. But after getting it checked, it turned out worse than I thought.”
A Star’s Impact
Drafted in the second round in 2020, Higgins has made a significant impact with 257 receptions for 3,684 yards and 24 touchdowns in his career. Despite his impressive stats, including two 1,000-yard seasons, the Pro Bowl has eluded him. Alas, he’ll miss at least one game for the fourth consecutive season.
Returning Stronger
Higgins vowed to return to the field once he’s fully recovered. “I want to go out there and give my teammates a hundred percent of Tee Higgins. I don’t want to give them 50% and half-ass it just to be a presence on the field.”
With the kind of spirit and determination he’s shown, fans can be sure that when Higgins steps back onto the field, it will be with the fiery energy of a warrior ready to conquer! As they say in Peru, Higgins is ready to turn this ‘papayita’ of a situation into a triumphant return. Hang tight, Bengals fans—this story is far from over!
