Higgins, playing under a one-year franchise tag after failing to secure a long-term deal during the past two offseasons, could potentially leave in free agency.
But Burrow has now weighed in on the conversation, saying: “Those discussions are ongoing. I’m confident that I think we’re going to do what it takes to bring Tee back.”
“I know that I’m going to do what it takes to get him back and so is he. We’ve had those talks. Those are going to be offseason discussions. But I think we’re excited about that opportunity.”
Keeping Higgins with the Bengals remains a daunting task.
Burrow already commands a $55 million annual salary, and Chase, currently leading the NFL in receiving yards, catches, and touchdowns, is likely to seek a record-breaking deal for a wide receiver.
Meanwhile, Cincinnati’s playoff chances are slim, even after improving to a 5-8 record.
Still, Burrow doubled down on his belief that the team can make it work.
Chase led the way in the Bengals’ victory against the Cowboys, finishing with 14 receptions on 18 targets for 177 yards and two touchdowns, including a 40-yard game-winning score with just over a minute left on the clock.
His performance was made possible, in part, by Higgins’ impact on the field.
“You feel his presence when he is out there,” Burrow said of Higgins.
“You feel how it affects the defense. You feel how it affects the defensive coordinator’s calls. Even if he’s not super productive on the night, teams have to worry about him and feel his presence.”
Higgins had a quieter night statistically, catching two passes on five targets for 23 yards.
He made it clear he values his connection with Burrow and Chase but also understands the financial realities of the NFL.
He said: “The relationships are more important. Financially, that’s going to come.
“Like y’all said, this could be my last season [with the Bengals], so I definitely appreciated it [being a pre-game captain], for sure. I love those guys to death.”
