📸 Image Credit: Sean Rayford/The Associated Press
The 2025 NFL season has been a rollercoaster for the Cincinnati Bengals, but wide receiver Tee Higgins has emerged as one of the team’s most reliable offensive weapons. Even amidst quarterback changes, midseason adjustments, and a challenging schedule, Higgins has shown flashes of consistency and playmaking ability that the Bengals desperately need.
With Joe Flacco stepping in as the new starter after being traded from Cleveland, Higgins has become a critical target in the passing game, helping the veteran quarterback find rhythm and maintain offensive momentum.
Tee Higgins Stats
Through six games, Higgins has compiled a stat line that underscores both his consistency and his potential as a game-changer:
- Receptions: 18
- Targets: 35
- Receiving Yards: 220
- Average Yards per Catch: 12.2
- Receiving Touchdowns: 2
- Longest Reception: 42 yards
- Rushing Attempts: 0
- Rushing Yards: 0
- Fumbles: 0
These numbers highlight a receiver who is not only reliable but also a threat to create big plays. Higgins’ ability to stay secure with the football — zero fumbles through six games — further solidifies his role as a trusted weapon in Cincinnati’s offense.
Game-by-Game Contributions
Higgins’ performances across the first six games show a mix of steady production and flashes of explosiveness:
- Week 1 @ Cleveland (W 17–16): Higgins had 3 receptions for 33 yards, helping Flacco connect in a tight opener.
- Week 2 vs Jacksonville (W 31–27): 3 catches for 56 yards and his first touchdown of the season on a 42-yard reception highlighted his big-play ability.
- Week 3 @ Minnesota (L 48–10): 1 reception for 15 yards in a tough road loss.
- Week 4 @ Denver (L 28–3): 3 receptions for 32 yards, continuing to contribute despite a struggling offense.
- Week 5 vs Detroit (L 37–24): 3 catches for 22 yards and a touchdown, showing his knack for finding the end zone in key moments.
- Week 6 @ Green Bay (L 27–18): 5 receptions for 62 yards, his most productive game of the season, proving he can step up as the focal point when needed.
Higgins has been remarkably consistent in getting open and creating opportunities, even when the Bengals’ passing game has struggled to gain traction.
Role in the Bengals Offense
Tee Higgins could carved out a vital role as one of Flacco’s top options. He excels on short-to-intermediate routes, providing a safety valve for the veteran quarterback while also stretching the field with occasional deep shots. Higgins’ presence demands attention from defensive backs, which often opens up opportunities for Ja’Marr Chase and other receivers.
Even in games where the Bengals’ offense has sputtered, Higgins has maintained his performance level, showcasing reliability and efficiency. His ability to make contested catches and gain yards after the catch has been a stabilizing factor in an otherwise uneven passing attack.
Looking Ahead: Week 7 vs Pittsburgh Steelers
The upcoming Week 7 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers (4–1) on Thursday Night Football will be a key test for Higgins. Pittsburgh’s defense is disciplined, particularly in coverage, meaning Higgins will need to rely on sharp route-running, timing, and separation to create opportunities.
Flacco’s continued growth in Cincinnati’s offense will heavily depend on Higgins’ ability to get open and make consistent plays. Success in this game could not only help the Bengals compete in the AFC North but also give Flacco confidence as he continues to adjust to his new system.
Conclusion
Through six games, Tee Higgins has proven himself as one of the Bengals’ most dependable and productive offensive weapons. With 18 receptions for 220 yards and 2 touchdowns, he has demonstrated the ability to make critical plays and stretch defenses, even in a challenging season.
As the Bengals face the Steelers in Week 7, Higgins’ performance could be pivotal. If he continues to make plays and maintain consistency, he could be the difference-maker for Cincinnati, helping Flacco lead the offense and keep the team competitive in a tough AFC North division.
