With the Bengals clinging to their playoff hopes, every healthy player is crucial, especially wide receiver Tee Higgins. The team currently sits at 7-8, and while they’re not out of the postseason race yet, they need to win their last two games to have a shot. This journey begins with a vital Week 17 matchup against the Denver Broncos, who currently occupy the third and final wild-card spot in the AFC. But will Higgins be able to contribute in this pivotal game?
Is Tee Higgins playing this week?
Tee Higgins is officially listed as questionable for the Bengals’ Week 17 contest. He has been dealing with injuries to his ankle and knee, which limited his participation in practice throughout the week. On Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, Higgins was a limited participant, raising concerns about his availability for Saturday’s game.
This season has been a challenging one for Higgins, who has battled injuries throughout. He was already on the injury report before the Week 16 game against the Cleveland Browns. Although he did not carry a designation into that game, he suffered injuries during the third quarter. Thankfully, after being evaluated by trainers on the sideline, he managed to return to the field. However, will he be able to do the same this week?
Bengals’ playoff picture
The Bengals are not out of the playoff race yet, but the road ahead is tough. To keep their postseason dreams alive, they must win both of their remaining games. This Saturday’s clash against the Broncos is particularly crucial, as it could determine their fate. Cincinnati will also need help from other teams to sneak into the playoffs, making every game a must-win scenario.
If Higgins is unable to play, the Bengals will need to rely on their depth at wide receiver. Ja’Marr Chase, the team’s clear WR1, has developed an incredible rapport with quarterback Joe Burrow. Their chemistry dates back to their college days at LSU, and Chase is widely regarded as one of the best wide receivers in the league.
Bengals WR depth chart
| Rank | Name |
| No. 1 | Ja’Marr Chase |
| No. 2 | Tee Higgins (Q) |
| No. 3 | Andre Iosivas |
| No. 4 | Jermaine Burton |
| No. 5 | Charlie Jones |
| No. 6 | Isaiah Williams |
When healthy, Higgins is a formidable second option for the Bengals. He has consistently been an excellent weapon to complement Chase. If Higgins is sidelined against the Broncos, expect Andre Iosivas to see an increase in targets. Additionally, tight end Mike Gesicki has also been more involved in the offense when Higgins is out, making him a potential fantasy sleeper for this week.
Tee Higgins stats 2024
For those keeping track of Higgins’ performance this season, here are his key stats:
| Games | 10 |
| Receptions | 58 |
| Targets | 92 |
| Receiving yards | 727 |
| Touchdowns | 7 |
These numbers illustrate Higgins’ potential impact when on the field. His ability to make plays is vital for the Bengals’ offense, especially in high-stakes games like the one against the Broncos.
What to watch for in Week 17
As we head into Week 17, fantasy managers and Bengals fans alike are left wondering: Will Higgins suit up? His status is crucial not just for the Bengals’ playoff aspirations but also for fantasy lineups across the league. If he plays, he could be a significant contributor, but if he sits, the Bengals will need to adapt quickly.
Keep an eye on the injury reports leading up to game time. The Bengals’ offense could shift dramatically depending on Higgins’ availability. Ja’Marr Chase will continue to be the focal point, but the potential for Iosivas and Gesicki to step up adds an intriguing layer to the Bengals’ game plan.
With the stakes so high, every play counts. The Bengals need to rally together, and having their stars healthy is essential. As the game approaches, fans will be on the edge of their seats, hoping for good news regarding Tee Higgins. The excitement of NFL football is at its peak, and this Week 17 showdown promises to be a thrilling chapter in the Bengals’ quest for the playoffs.
