After earlier reports indicated that the Cincinnati Bengals' decision to franchise tag Tee Higgins was a prelude to a trade, the talented wide receiver is officially requesting to be moved, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. A split seemed inevitable before the offseason even began, and now the wheels are in motion for a major transaction to occur at some point in the near future.

Higgins knows he is unlikely to receive the contract extension he desires in Cincinnati, with hefty financial obligations already being made to the offense and more expected to come soon. Another team looking to upgrade its WR room with a high-quality red zone target would be expected to make a firm commitment to the 25-year-old.

The Bengals could also satisfy their own interests, as there is belief around the league that they can acquire a first or early second-round draft pick in exchange for Higgins, per Ari Meirov of The 33rd Team. That potential return value would presumably appeal to director of player personnel Duke Tobin, considering the four-year receiver is coming off an injury-ravaged 2023-24 campaign.

Higgins tallied 42 receptions for 656 yards and five touchdowns in 12 games. Additionally, franchise quarterback Joe Burrow missed a large chunk of the season, so the former national champion and Clemson star should be given some leeway.

He surpassed 1,000 receiving yards and scored at least six times in each of the previous two years while working behind Pro Bowl receiver Ja'Marr Chase. Assuming the Bengals comply with Tee Higgins' trade request, he should have an opportunity to prove he is more than a No. 2 option.