The NFL's franchise-tag window is open, so let's look back at a few recent players who have proven their worth on the tag.

For some, though, Higgins’ best fit in free agency might be with a team like the Washington Commanders, not the Bengals — an idea thrown out by ESPN’s Matt Bowen:

The start of the offseason means the unofficial beginning of 2025 NFL free agency. While no one can be officially signed until March 12 — and reports about signings won’t be unveiled until the legal tampering period begins on March 10 — February is the time where front offices begin lining up their chess pieces for the action ahead.

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The 2025 NFL offseason is here. While the new league year technically doesn't begin until March 12, which is when signings and trades can become official, Tuesday marked the opening of the franchise tag window.

Higgins (6-4, 220 pounds) was picked by the Cincinnati Bengals in the second round of the 2020 NFL draft out of Clemson. The 26-year-old receiver hauled in 330 receptions for 4,595 yards and 34 touchdowns in five years (70 games) with the Bengals.

Allocating over $25 million on the tag for a guard could prove to be too costly, especially when they already have $71.9 million on the books across the line, mostly tied up by some high-priced players like Jawaan Taylor, Joe Thuney and Creed Humphrey. That is currently the fourth-most expensive offensive line in the league, according to Spotrac.

The Cincinnati Bengals are hoping to keep their three stars on long-term deals, including wide receiver Tee Higgins, even if it takes using the franchise tag again. Let's look at the pros and cons of the Bengals using the franchise tag on Higgins.