The Cincinnati Bengals failed to make it to the playoffs after a disappointing loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Joe Burrow and his team had a solid opportunity to make it to the Wild Card game but failed to make something happen.
The Bengals seemed lackluster for most of the season. Just a few years ago, the explosiveness of Tee Higgins and the consistency of Ja'Marr Chase led the Bengals to the Super Bowl, but after a disappointing 2024 season, it seems they require a roster change.
For the coming NFL Draft, the Bengals are predicted to draft Luther Burden in the first round, according to Sporting News' recent mock draft. The move would mean the team is looking to replace Higgins and add something different to the team.
"The Bengals need to make a call on whether to re-sign Tee Higgins, as they also need to lock up triple-crown winner Ja'Marr Chase with the biggest WR contract in NFL history. Higgins connects well with Joe Burrow, but he might be pricey and can be replaced with the more Tyler Boyd-like Burden as the No. 2," Sporting News wrote.
Higgins, has been a key wide receiver for the Bengals. He is expected to command a hefty contract in free agency, which might make it difficult for Cincinnati to retain him.
Drafting Burden, a highly-rated prospect from Missouri, would provide the Bengals with a cost-effective and dynamic replacement who can contribute immediately alongside Ja'Marr Chase.
Luther Burden III is a standout wide receiver from Missouri, known for his versatility and playmaking ability. Standing at 5'11" and weighing 208 pounds, Burden has a 40-yard dash time of 4.41 seconds, making him a legitimate deep threat.
His ability to create separation and excel after the catch makes him an ideal fit for the Bengals' offense. Burden's skill set would complement Chase's game, providing Cincinnati with a formidable receiving duo that can stretch the field and create mismatches for opposing defenses.
Losing Tee Higgins would undoubtedly be a significant blow to the Bengals' offense. In the 2024 season, Higgins recorded 87 receptions for 1,183 yards and nine touchdowns, showcasing his importance to the team's passing attack.
His departure would leave a substantial void in the receiving corps, necessitating the need for a capable replacement like Burden. While Burden may not immediately replicate Higgins' production, his potential and affordability make him a promising option for the Bengals as they look to maintain offensive efficiency and competitiveness in the league
