Bengals Tag Higgins, Pursue Gesicki Amid Contract Talks

Cincinnati Bengals director of player personnel Duke Tobin has expressed mixed feelings about wide receiver Jermaine Burton, stating he needs to demonstrate his talent to secure a roster spot after a lackluster rookie season. Meanwhile, the Bengals have tagged star wide receiver Tee Higgins for the second year in a row, committing $26.2 million for the upcoming season while negotiations for a long-term contract continue. Tobin remains optimistic about retaining all three key players, including Higgins and Ja'Marr Chase, while also indicating interest in extending tight end Mike Gesicki, who had a productive season. Gesicki's performance has impressed the Bengals, and they view him as a priority in their offseason plans. Despite the tight end market being projected at around $8 million per year, the Bengals are weighing their options carefully, considering their cap space and other contractual obligations. The team's focus is on maximizing their roster for another competitive season with quarterback Joe Burrow at the helm.