JUST IN: Patriots’ Offense in Crisis: New England Must Make Blockbuster Move for Tee Higgins or Face Another Lost Season!
Patriots’ Offense in Crisis: New England Must Make Blockbuster Move for Tee Higgins or Face Another Lost Season!
Patriots’ Offense in Crisis: New England Must Make Blockbuster Move for Tee Higgins or Face Another Lost Season!
As the New England Patriots enter the 2025 NFL offseason, one of their biggest priorities will be revamping their offensive playmakers. After finishing near the bottom of the league in passing yards and points per game in 2024, the Patriots need to find a legitimate No. 1 wide receiver to support their quarterback—whether it be Mac Jones, Bailey Zappe, or a rookie drafted this spring.
With over $130 million in projected salary cap space, the Patriots have the financial flexibility to make a splash in free agency. One of the best wide receivers expected to hit the market is Tee Higgins, and the Patriots should aggressively pursue him as their top target.
Why Tee Higgins is the Perfect Fit for New England
Higgins has been a key contributor for the Cincinnati Bengals since being drafted in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Playing alongside Ja’Marr Chase, he has often been the No. 2 option in the Bengals’ offense, but he possesses the skill set of a true No. 1 receiver.
At 6-foot-4 and 215 pounds, Higgins has the size, hands, and route-running ability to make plays at all levels of the field. His ability to win contested catches and stretch defenses would bring a dynamic element to a Patriots offense that has lacked explosiveness in recent years.
In 2022, Higgins posted 74 receptions for 1,029 yards and 7 touchdowns, showcasing his ability to produce at a high level. Though injuries limited his numbers in 2023 and 2024, he remains one of the league’s most reliable and physically dominant receivers. The Patriots haven’t had a true No. 1 receiver since Julian Edelman’s prime, and Higgins could be that game-changing piece.
What Higgins Would Bring to the Patriots Offense
The Patriots struggled mightily in the passing game last season, ranking near the bottom of the league in passing efficiency. Their top wide receivers, Kendrick Bourne, DeVante Parker, and JuJu Smith-Schuster, failed to create separation consistently, leading to an inefficient offense that struggled to sustain drives.
Higgins would immediately change that. His big-play ability would force defenses to respect the deep ball, opening up space underneath for other playmakers. His red-zone presence would give the Patriots a reliable target in scoring situations, an area where they have struggled. Additionally, his ability to win contested catches would help any quarterback feel more comfortable throwing his way.
How Much Will Higgins Cost?
Because of his age (just 26 years old) and production, Higgins is expected to command a massive contract in free agency. His deal could be in the range of $22–25 million per year, similar to other top receivers like A.J. Brown and Deebo Samuel.
The Patriots, however, have the cap space to afford such a contract. If they are serious about improving the offense, spending big on a true No. 1 receiver is a necessity.
Alternative Options If Higgins Signs Elsewhere
- If the Patriots are unable to land Higgins, there are other free-agent wide receivers they could target:
- Michael Pittman Jr. (Colts) – Another big-bodied receiver with strong hands and route-running ability.
- Calvin Ridley (Jaguars) – A dynamic playmaker with elite speed and route-running skills.
- Mike Evans (Buccaneers) – A veteran deep-threat who continues to produce at a high level.
- However, Higgins remains the best long-term solution for New England. At 26, he is entering his prime and can grow with a young quarterback over the next several seasons.
Final Verdict: The Patriots Must Go All-In on Higgins
The Patriots have neglected the wide receiver position for too long. If they want to give their next quarterback a real chance to succeed, they must prioritize getting him a true No. 1 target. Tee Higgins is that player.
With their abundant cap space and need for an elite playmaker, there is no excuse for New England not to pursue him aggressively. If the Patriots are serious about returning to contention, signing Higgins should be their top priority in free agency.
