The Bengals have a number of playmakers scheduled to

After 2023, a number of playmakers for the Bengals are scheduled to become unrestricted free agents. For this reason, in his most recent mock draft, Chris Trapasso of CBS Sports has Cincinnati adding to quarterback Joe Burrow’s toolbox.

Brian Thomas Jr., a wide receiver from LSU, is the player Trapasso envisions the Bengals drafting with selection No. 18 in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft.

In the event that Higgins leaves Cincinnati in 2024, the wide receiver position need to be the team’s main priority. That might very well occur, given that the 25-year-old will be highly sought after following a 2020–2023 season in which he recorded 257 receptions for 3,684 yards and 24 touchdowns.

If the two sides are unable to reach a new contract agreement, it appears likely that the Bengals will decide to franchise tag Higgins. With Cincinnati, meanwhile, he might have played his final snap if he chooses not to play on the tag.

Higgins is anticipated to sign a $74.4 million, four-year contract ($18.6 million year), according to Spotrac.

The Bengals could lose other playmakers this offseason besides Higgins. Additionally, wide receiver Tyler Boyd is scheduled to enter the open market after

Throughout his career, the 29-year-old has been among Cincinnati’s most reliable players. Boyd has achieved at least 50 catches for 600 yards in seven of his eight seasons.

It nearly seems imperative that the Bengals add a wide receiver like Thomas Jr. if they end up losing Higgins, Boyd, or both.

With 68 receptions for 1,177 yards and 17 touchdowns in 2023, the 21-year-old is presently ranked No. 21 overall and as the fourth-best wide receiver on Pro Football Focus’ big board.

The Bengals may have a formidable wide receiver combination for many years to come if they pair Thomas Jr. with Ja’Marr Chase.