The Bengals have decided that this year is their time. They want Joe Burrow to have all of his key weapons. So, they don’t want any complacency to creep in. They had two major challenges, Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. Rumor mills churned away piece after piece that Higgins will be franchise-tagged again while Chase was set to become one of the highest paid. Now, the rumors are turning into concrete. Concrete that Cincinnati could use to build a stairway to heaven (aka the Super Bowl). Burrow’s wish to keep both his weapons has been granted, in a big way.

According to reporter Jordan Schultz, Chase is set to become the highest-paid non-QB player in league history. He could soon sign a 4-year $161 million deal with $112 million guaranteed. Records have shattered for the WR2 as well. The Bengals gave Higgins a 4-year $115 million deal with the first 2 years guaranteed.

Joe Burrow, a big-time supporter for both receivers, stressed the importance of teamwork multiple times during the season. The signal caller carried a cap space of $46 million last year, the first of his 5-year $275 million extension till 2029. When he appeared on Pardon My Take podcast last month, he expressed his openness to a contract restructure. Looks like the front office listened to their headman.

Chase repaid the Bengals’ faith with a triple crown performance, leading the league in receptions (127), receiving yards (1,708), and receiving touchdowns (17). Schultz noted that in the next 5 years, the WR will earn $182.816 million. It was an expected addition. The surprise came with the Higgins deal. Despite playing just 12 games (9 starters) in the 2024 season, the WR2 had 73 receptions in 911 receiving yards and 10 TDs. They helped Joe Burrow excel on the field and clinch the Comeback Player of the Year.

This triple threat will be back together in the coming season. It’s a major warning to the 31 other teams. While this is a major boost to the O-line, it meant sacrifices elsewhere. That blow came to the Bengals’ defense.

Joe Burrow’s teammate moves to AFC South franchise

Tennessee is set to sign the veteran ex-Bengals CB, Mike Hilton. That would be one of the most notable free agent signings for the Titans. ESPN’s Aaron Schatz praised the CB and said, “Hilton has always been special as a playmaker in the slot. He can play coverage, defend the run and blitz. For example, he made his average run tackle after a gain of just 2.6 yards this past season, the best figure for any cornerback with at least 20 run tackles. In addition, 17 of his 35 tackles after a pass reception stopped the receiver short of a successful gain.”

The 31-year-old has a few years left in the tank. Even Pro Focus Football gave him an average 68.5 grade rating. But they also acknowledged him as one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL, with a 91.7 defensive grade. While the exact details of his contract are not out yet, Schatz predicted a 3-year $37 million deal. The Titans, with $55.8 million cap space, could give him a deal in that range.

Tennessee finished 3-14 last year. With the signing of an 8-year veteran and the No. 1 draft pick, the team is looking to be competitive again. As we move deeper into free agency, things are getting clearer for all sides. Brace yourself for all the changes while teams fine tune their strategies ahead of the upcoming draft.