Tee Higgins has faced off coverage (5+ yds cushion) on 66.3% of his routes since Wk 13 | Wks 1-12: 46.0%

Expects to remain with Bengals

Higgins stated at his youth camp Sunday that he anticipates playing for Cincinnati in 2024, Ben Baby of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Higgins received the Bengals' franchise tag in late February, and a report by Adam Schefter of ESPN in early March indicated that the wideout had requested a trade. However, Higgins now appears to have had a change of heart, as his comments Sunday suggest that he's planning to suit up for Cincinnati during the 2024 campaign. It's not clear if that means progress has been made between the player and organization in reaching the long-term extension that Higgins has reportedly been seeking.

Requests trade, per report

Higgins has reportedly requested a trade, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN.

Analysis: The Bengals previously placed their franchise tag on Higgins, but Schefter indicates that the wideout is disappointed in the lack of progress toward a long-term contract extension and thus is seeking a new situation. It remains to be seen how amenable Cincinnati will be to his request, and it's still possible that the two sides move toward a resolution that would keep Higgins in the fold in 2024. However, the 2020 second-rounder's future with the franchise is up in the air as NFL free agency…read more

Officially gets franchise tag

The Bengals applied their franchise tag to Higgins (hamstring) on Monday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: According to Rapoport, Higgins' franchise tag number is expected to fall around $21.8 million for the 2024 season, but the tag may merely serve as a placeholder as the Bengals work toward a long-term extension with the receiver prior to the July 15 deadline. If the two sides are far apart on an extension, the Bengals also could look to trade Higgins, who would be a highly-sought after receiver given the weak crop of free agents at the position. Higgins was limited to just 11 games in 2023 due…read more

Expected to receive franchise tag

The Bengals informed Higgins (hamstring) on Friday that he will receive the franchise tag, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: With the tag deadline still a week away, the Bengals have skipped negotiations for a long-term deal by letting Higgins know he will be franchised. A new contract still is a possibility, but this is apparently the most likely route as of now. The 25-year-old battled injuries during his fourth season in Cincinnati en route to career lows in yards (656) and touchdowns (five) in 12 games.

Won't play Sunday

Higgins (hamstring) is inactive for Sunday's season finale against the Browns.

Analysis: With the Bengals eliminated from playoff contention, Higgins will sit this one out, thus finishing his 2023 campaign with 42 catches for 656 yards and five touchdowns on 76 targets in 12 games. The 2020 second-rounder is eligible for free agency this offseason and his contract situation with the franchise will be something to monitor in the coming months. In his absence Sunday, added Week 18 snaps alongside Ja'Marr Chase and Tyler Boyd will be available for Trenton Irwin, Andrei Iosivas,…read more

Likely to sit out finale

The Bengals list Higgins (hamstring) as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Browns.

Analysis: The door isn't completely closed on Higgins suiting up for the season finale, but after the receiver failed to practice in any fashion this week, he'll most likely sit out for the 8-8 Bengals, who have been eliminated from playoff contention. Assuming he's inactive this weekend, Higgins will finish his fourth NFL season with 42 catches for 656 yards and five touchdowns on 76 targets. The 24-year-old is scheduled for free agency this season and would be one of the most sought-after receivers if…read more

Misses another practice Friday

Higgins (hamstring) didn't practice Friday, Kelsey Conway of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports.

Analysis: Higgins has been a non-participant in practice throughout the week. Head coach Zac Taylor was non-committal about Higgins' status for Sunday's game against the Browns, but the receiver's lack of practice activity doesn't bode well for his chances of playing in the season finale.

Misses another practice

Higgins (hamstring) remained sidelined at practice Thursday.

Analysis: Higgins also didn't practice Wednesday, so he'll presumably need to practice fully Friday in order to avoid approaching Sunday's game against the Browns with an injury designation. On the plus side for the Bengals' Week 18 wideout corps, Ja'Marr Chase (shoulder) participated fully in Thursday's practice.

Misses practice Wednesday

Higgins (hamstring) didn't practice Wednesday, Ben Baby of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Baby previously noted that both Higgins and Ja'Marr Chase (shoulder) were spotted in uniform stretching prior to the session, but Higgins was ultimately deemed a non-participant, while Chase was a limited participant. Higgins now has two more chances to practice ahead of Sunday's season finale against the Browns, and he'll presumably need to upgrade to full activity by Friday in order to avoid a Week 18 injury designation.

Limited by injury in Week 17

Higgins recorded one reception on two targets for 19 yards in Sunday's 25-17 loss to the Chiefs.

Analysis: Higgins made a 19-yard reception on the Bengals' first possession, but he was held out of the game for a lengthy period of time due to a hamstring injury. While he was able to re-enter the contest, it's doubtful he was playing at close to full health. That puts him in a questionable position to take the field in a Week 18 matchup against the Browns, particularly with the Bengals eliminated from playoff contention.

Back in Sunday's game

Higgins (hamstring) has returned to Sunday's game against the Chiefs, Ben Baby of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Higgins previously left the contest with a left hamstring injury, but the wideout was able to return to action in the third quarter. Prior to his earlier departure versus Kansas City, Higgins had caught his only target for 19 yards.

Injures hamstring Sunday

Higgins was forced out of Sunday's game against the Chiefs with a left hamstring injury.

Analysis: Prior to his exit from the contest, Higgins caught his only target for 19 yards. In his absence, Tyler Boyd, Andrei Iosivas, Trenton Irwin and Charlie Jones are available to handle wide receiver snaps behind top option Ja'Marr Chase.

Scores 80-yard TD in loss

Higgins caught five of eight targets for 140 yards and a touchdown in Saturday's 34-11 loss to the Steelers.

Analysis: Higgins had just two targets in the first half. He caught one for a 23-yard gain, and the other fell incomplete in the end zone on fourth-and-1 from the 5-yard line. Higgins' third target came on Cincinnati's first offensive play after halftime, and he took it to the house for an 80-yard touchdown. That was the start of a strong second half from Higgins, which was too little, too late for the Bengals, who dropped to 8-7 heading into a difficult Week 16 road matchup against the Chiefs. It…read more

Scores twice in Saturday's victory

Higgins caught four passes for 61 yards and two touchdowns on eight targets in the 27-24 overtime victory against the Vikings on Saturday.

Analysis: Higgins scored both touchdowns in the second half, both during regulation. One occurred before Ja'Marr Chase left with a shoulder injury, the other after. Perhaps Higgins' second touchdown was influenced partially by Chase's absence, but it qualifies as a bounce-back game for Higgins either way. He also nearly had a 40-yard reception toward the end of the first half that was overturned on review. If Chase were to miss time, it would likely give Higgins an increased target share when the Bengals…read more

Big gains on two catches

Higgins brought in two of four targets for 72 yards in the Bengals' 34-14 win over the Colts on Sunday.

Analysis: Higgins actually finished second on the Bengals in receiving yards and tied for first in targets despite his modest number of catches. The talented fourth-year pro is still developing his chemistry with fill-in quarterback Jake Browning, but Higgins' day would have been a bit better had he not wiped out his own touchdown grab -- on a pass from AJ McCarron, who'd come in for a handful of plays when Browning was experiencing cramps -- by pushing off his defender. Higgins next sets his sights on…read more

Three catches in return to action

Higgins (hamstring/ankle) brought in all three targets for 36 yards in the Bengals' 34-31 overtime win over the Jaguars on Monday night.

Analysis: Higgins was relatively quiet in his first opportunity to work with interim starter Jake Browning, but he was able to make it through the long night unscathed after a three-game absence. The fourth-year pro also contributed a key 11-yard catch on third down during the Bengals' game-winning drive in overtime, putting a positive cap on an otherwise quiet night. With his first game with his new signal-caller now under his belt, Higgins could be even more productive in a Week 14 home matchup against…read more

Logs full practice Friday

Higgins (hamstring/ankle) was listed as a full practice participant Friday.

Analysis: After returning to a limited practice Thursday, Higgins -- who has missed three straight games -- returned to a full session Friday, which sets the stage for the wideout to return to action Monday night against the Jaguars. Prior to being sidelined, Higgins compiled a 27-328-2 line on 51 targets through seven games. In his looming return to the lineup, Higgins should reclaim a key role in the Bengals' WR corps, but his fantasy upside could take a hit now that he'll be catching passes from QB…read more

Limited in return to practice

The Bengals listed Higgins as a limited practice participant Thursday due to hamstring and ankle injuries.

Analysis: Higgins was back on the practice field for the first time since Nov. 8, after the hamstring issue had kept him from playing in any of the Bengals' last three games. Though the listed ankle injury is a new one for Higgins, the wideout said Thursday that he doesn't expect either health concern to keep him from playing Monday in Jacksonville, according to Geoff Hobson of the Bengals' official site. The Bengals will wait and see if Higgins can upgrade to full practice participation Friday or…read more

Returns to practice Thursday

Higgins (hamstring) was on the field in full uniform for Thursday's practice, Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Higgins hadn't practiced in any capacity since Nov. 8, when he was listed as a limited participant for that session before being listed on the injury report as a non-participant for the Bengals' next eight practices. He's missed three straight games along the way, but after getting back on the field Thursday, Higgins is taking a step toward a potential return to action this Monday against the Jaguars. The extent of Higgins' practice participation will be revealed later Thursday, but if he's…read more

May return in Week 13

Coach Zac Taylor said that Higgins (hamstring) has a chance to return to action next Monday at Jacksonville, Kelsey Conway of the Cincinnati Enquirer reports. "I think so," Taylor relayed. "We'll see what we can get out of him this week as it goes."

Analysis: Higgins has missed three games since hurting his hamstring in a Nov. 8 practice. The Bengals won't reconvene for practice until Thursday, at which point Higgins could take the first step toward playing again. Until that happens, Trenton Irwin will continue to see an increased role alongside Ja'Marr Chase and Tyler Boyd in the team's passing game.

Sitting out Sunday

Bengals head coach Zac Tayor said Higgins (hamstring) won't play Sunday against the Steelers, Ben Baby of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: With Higgins set to miss a third straight game, Ja'Marr Chase, Tyler Boyd and Trenton Irwin are expected to serve as the Bengals' top three options at receiver for new starting quarterback Jake Browning, who is filling in for Joe Burrow (wrist). With Burrow on track to miss the rest of the season, Higgins' fantasy outlook will take a hit even if he's able to return for the Bengals' next game Dec. 4 against the Jaguars in Week 13.

Not seen at Friday's practice

Higgins (hamstring) wasn't spotted at practice Friday, Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports.

Analysis: Higgins didn't practice Wednesday or Thursday either, which clouds his status for Sunday's game against the Steelers. If the wideout is unavailable for a third straight game this weekend, Ja'Marr Chase, Tyler Boyd and Trenton Irwin would be in line to lead the Bengals' receiver corps.

Listed as non-participant Thursday

Higgins (hamstring) remained listed as a non-participant on Thursday's practice report, Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports.

Analysis: Back-to-back DNPs set the stage for what (if anything) Higgins is able to do Friday to be telling with regard to his chances of suiting up Sunday against the Steelers. If he remains sidelined this weekend, Ja'Marr Chase, Tyler Boyd and Trenton Irwin would be in line to work as QB Jake Browning's top targets at wide receiver Week 12.

Fails to practice Wednesday

Higgins (hamstring) isn't practicing Wednesday, Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports.

Analysis: Head coach Zac Taylor said that some of the Bengals injured players were improving and would return to practice Wednesday. Higgins apparently won't be among that group and thus appears in danger of missing a third straight game when the Bengals face the Steelers on Sunday. He's unlikely to put up his typical numbers whenever he gets healthy, as the Bengals are stuck with Jake Browning under center after Joe Burrow suffered a season-ending wrist injury during last Thursday's loss at Baltimore.

Ruled out for Thursday

Higgins (hamstring) has been ruled out for Thursday's game in Baltimore, Ben Baby of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Higgins hasn't practiced since emerging from the Week 9 win over Buffalo with a hamstring injury. He caught eight passes for 110 yards in that contest but now will miss a second straight game, leaving Trenton Irwin to handle most of the snaps at receiver alongside mainstays Ja'Marr Chase and Tyler Boyd. The good news for Higgins is that he has 10 days until Cincinnati's next game, a Week 12 tilt with the Steelers on Nov. 26.

Sits out Tuesday's practice

Higgins (hamstring) was a non-participant in Tuesday's practice, Jay Morrison of ProFootballNetwork.com reports.

Analysis: Per Chris Roling of USA Today, head coach Zac Taylor said Monday that Higgins is day-to-day with his hamstring injury, while Adam Schefter of ESPN reports that the wideout is expected to miss his second straight game Thursday against the Ravens. The short week works against Higgins, as the Bengals may only hold a walk-through session Wednesday, which would make it difficult for the team to properly gauge his health even if he gets back on the field. In the likely scenario that he sits, Tyler…read more

Unlikely to play Thursday night

Higgins (hamstring) is considered unlikely to play in Thursday's game against the Ravens, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Higgins was officially listed as a non-participant on the Bengals' estimated practice report Monday, one day after he sat out Cincinnati's Week 10 loss to the Texans. Though the Week 11 contest has huge implications in the AFC North standings, Higgins doesn't look as though he'll be able to play through the injury on a short week. While Higgins was sidelined on Sunday and while Ja'Marr Chase nursed a bruised back, Tyler Boyd paced the receiver group in playing time (92 percent snap share),…read more

Won't play versus Texans

Head coach Zac Taylor said Friday that Higgins (hamstring) won't play Sunday against the Texans, Geoff Hobson of the Bengals' official site reports.

Analysis: With Higgins out and Ja'Marr Chase dealing with a back issue ahead of Sunday's contest, look for Tyler Boyd and Trenton Irwin to see added opportunities at receiver this weekend. When Higgins was sidelined by a rib injury Week 5, Irwin stepped into an expanded role behind Chase and caught eight passes on 10 targets for 60 yards, while Boyd logged a 6-39-0 receiving line on seven targets. Higgins' next opportunity to play will arrive this coming Thursday versus the Ravens, but on a short week,…read more

Remains sidelined Friday

Higgins (hamstring) wasn't spotted on the field for Friday's practice, Ben Baby of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Higgins didn't practice Thursday either and appears to be trending toward missing Sunday's game against the Texans, per Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. The Bengals will release their final Week 10 injury report later Friday, which will clarify whether Higgins carries a questionable or doubtful designation into the contest or is ruled out ahead of the weekend. If Higgins is sidelined this weekend, added pass-catching opportunities could be available for Tyler Boyd and Trenton Irwin.

Not expected to play Sunday

Higgins (hamstring) is expected to miss Sunday's game against the Texans, sources tell Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.

Analysis: Rapoport suggests that Higgins -- who didn't practice Thursday -- will be evaluated on a week-to-week basis moving forward. Friday's injury report will confirm whether Higgins is officially ruled out for the Week 10 game or if he's listed as doubtful or questionable, but assuming the wideout doesn't ultimately suit up Sunday, Trenton Irwin and Andrei Iosivas would be in store for added snaps.

Doesn't practice Thursday

Higgins (hamstring) didn't participate in practice Thursday, Kelsey Conway of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports.

Analysis: Higgins was listed as a limited participant Wednesday, but the wide receiver's lack of activity Thursday suggests that he's no lock to be available Sunday against the Texans. However, a return to practice Friday in any capacity, would brighten Higgins' chances of suiting up this weekend. On the plus side for the Bengals, Ja'Marr Chase (back) -- who didn't practice Wednesday -- was able to get some work in Thursday.

Deemed limited Wednesday

Higgins was listed as a limited participant in practice Wednesday due to a hamstring injury.

Analysis: Higgins' only prior appearances on the injury report this season were the result of a fractured rib he sustained Week 4, making it unclear if his listed hamstring injury is something he picked up in the Week 9 win over the Bills or during Wednesday's practice. Either way, Higgins' status is now worth monitoring in advance of Sunday's game against the Texans, especially with fellow wideout Ja'Marr Chase having missed Wednesday's session due to a back injury.

First 100-yard game of 2023

Higgins caught eight of nine targets for 110 yards in Sunday's 24-18 win over the Bills.

Analysis: Higgins finished as the Bengals' leading receiver while also recording his first game with 100 or more receiving yards this season. The 24-year-old experienced a steep drop in production this year, but a large part of that was tied to Joe Burrow's early-season struggles from a calf injury out of camp. Now that his quarterback has returned to form in recent weeks, we have seen Higgins follow suit with 13 receptions for 179 yards in his last two contests. A third consecutive strong outing against…read more

Solid showing in win

Higgins brought in five of six targets for 69 yards in the Bengals' 31-17 win over the 49ers on Sunday.

Analysis: Higgins finished second in receptions, receiving yards and targets to Ja'Marr Chase, with his catch and yardage totals also serving as his second-highest totals of the campaign. The fourth-year receiver's first half of the season has been marred by injury and some limited opportunity, but perhaps his best showing since Week 2 will propel him to even better numbers in a Week 9 home showdown against the Bills next Sunday night.

Quiet in return

Higgins recorded two receptions on four targets for 20 yards in Sunday's 17-13 win over Seattle.

Analysis: Higgins returned from a one-game absence caused by an injury to his ribs and turned in a quiet performance. He was unsurprisingly overshadowed by Ja'Marr Chase, but Tyler Boyd was also far more productive. Higgins has now shockingly turned in 21 or fewer receiving yards in four of his five games this season, though the Cincinnati offense should have a chance to get on track as the team heads into a Week 7 bye.

Suits up Sunday

Higgins (ribs) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Seahawks.

Analysis: Higgins, who was inactive last weekend after fracturing a rib in the Bengals' Week 4 loss to the Titans, approached the game listed as questionable after practicing fully Friday. Now that it's been confirmed that he'll give it a go Sunday, it remains to be seen if the wideout will handle his usual allotment of snaps, with Trenton Irwin a candidate to see added work alongside Ja'Marr Chase and Tyler Boyd should Higgins be limited at all or suffer any in-game setbacks. In four games to date,…read more

Expected to return

Higgins (rib), who is officially listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Seahawks, is expected to play, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Higgins missed the Bengals' Week 5 win over the Cardinals with a fractured rib, but he turned in a pair of limited practices this week before logging a full session Friday. He thus appears to be trending in the right direction to play, but his status won't become official until the Bengals release their inactive list 90 minutes before Sunday's 1 p.m. ET kickoff.

Questionable after full practice

The Bengals list Higgins (ribs) as questionable for Sunday's game against the Seahawks after he practiced fully Friday.

Analysis: Higgins' full practice session was his first since he fractured a rib in the Bengals' Oct. 1 loss to the Titans. He sat out last week's win over Arizona but looks to be trending in the right direction for Sunday after turning in a pair of limited practices this week in addition to the full session Friday. Per Geoff Hobson of the Bengals' official site, head coach Zac Taylor described Higgins as a game-time call for Sunday's contest, so fantasy managers will still want to verify the wideout's…read more

Considered game-time decision

Higgins (ribs) will be listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Seahawks and is viewed as a game-time call for the contest, Geoff Hobson of the Bengals' official site reports.

Analysis: Per Kelsey Conway of The Cincinnati Enquirer, coach Zac Taylor indicated that things appear "positive" regarding Higgins' status, but it looks like the team will wait until Sunday before making a final call on the wideout's availability. Fortunately for those considering Higgins in Week 6 fantasy lineups, the Bengals face the Seahawks at 1:00 ET on Sunday.

Still limited at practice

Higgins (ribs) remained a limited participant at practice Thursday, Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Higgins, who was forced out of the Bengals' Week 4 loss to the Titans with a rib fracture and was then inactive for the team's Week 5 win over Arizona, has now logged consecutive practices ahead of Sunday's game against the Seahawks. Per Kelsey Conway of The Cincinnati Enquirer, Higgins said Thursday that it's looking "promising" for him to play against Seattle, but unless the wideout practices fully Friday, he'll likely draw an injury designation.

Remains limited Wednesday

Higgins (rib) was a limited participant at practice Wednesday, Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Higgins, who was forced out of the Bengals' Week 4 loss to Tennessee with a rib fracture, was able to log a limited practice session this past Friday before sitting out Sunday's win over the Cardinals. With another limited session to start the current practice week, Higgins seems to have a chance to return to action this Sunday against the Seahawks. The wideout will, however, need to practice fully by Friday in order to avoid a Week 6 injury designation.

Inactive versus Cardinals

Higgins (rib) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Cardinals.

Analysis: Higgins was forced out of last weekend's game against the Titans due to a rib fracture, and though the wideout was able to log a limited practice session Friday, he'll sit this one out. In his absence Sunday, Tyler Boyd figures to see added opportunities alongside top WR Ja'Marr Chase, with Trenton Irwin a candidate to serve as the team's No. 3 WR and Andrei Iosivas and Kwamie Lassiter on hand in reserve. Higgins' next chance to suit up will arrive next weekend against the Seahawks, though…read more

Not expected to play Sunday

Higgins (ribs) remains listed as questionable but isn't expected to suit up for Sunday's game against the Cardinals, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Higgins looks poised to miss at least one game due to a rib fracture suffered in the Week 4 loss to the Titans. His availability, or lack thereof, should be made official roughly 90 minutes prior to Sunday's 4:05 p.m. ET kickoff, when Cincinnati releases its inactive list. If Higgins indeed can't go, Tyler Boyd will stand to step into the No. 2 wideout role alongside Ja'Marr Chase, while Trenton Irwin will likely operate as the No. 3 man.

Status up in air for Sunday

Higgins (ribs) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game at Arizona.

Analysis: Higgins was forced out of Week 4 action at Tennessee due to what was eventually termed a rib fracture. Coach Zac Taylor called Higgins day-to-day afterward, per Geoff Hobson of the Bengals' official site, and the wide receiver was only able to muster one limited session (Friday) this week. The Bengals kick off Sunday's game at 4:05 p.m. ET, meaning Higgins' availability will be unveiled about 90 minutes prior. If Higgins is not 100 percent or out this weekend, Tyler Boyd stands to benefit most…read more

Misses another practice

Higgins (rib) remained sidelined at practice Thursday, Kelsey Conway of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports.

Analysis: Higgins, who is dealing with a fractured rib, also missed Wednesday's practice, so what he's able to do Friday, if anything, will be telling with regard to his chances of suiting up Sunday against the Cardinals. Per Ben Baby of ESPN.com, Higgins suggested this past Monday that he could potentially play through his rib issue, noting, "Really, it's just up to me. Pain-wise, I might be able to go this week. I might not. You never know." If Higgins is limited or out this weekend, however, Geoff…read more

Not practicing Wednesday

Higgins (rib) won't practice Wednesday, Geoff Hobson of the Bengals' official site reports.

Analysis: Per Hobson, head coach Zac Taylor labeled Higgins as day-to-day as Sunday's game against the Cardinals approaches. Meanwhile, Ben Baby of ESPN.com previously relayed that the wideout may be able to play through his fractured rib this weekend. "Really, it's just up to me," Higgins acknowledged Monday regarding his Week 5 status. "Pain-wise, I might be able to go this week. I might not. You never know." If Higgins is out Sunday or is available to play limited snaps, however, Trenton Irwin and…read more

Not ruling self out for Week 5

Higgins said Monday that he doesn't envision his fractured rib keeping him out for an extended period and didn't rule out the possibility of playing this Sunday in Arizona if he can tolerate the pain and soreness, Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Per Kelsey Conway of The Cincinnati Enquirer, Higgins was careful to note that he fractured just one rib rather than multiple ones when he "landed wrong" during a play in this past Sunday's 27-3 loss to the Titans. According to Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer, Higgins initially thought his injury was back tightness and continued to play through the issue, but he ended up sitting out the final two quarters after a halftime X-ray revealed a fractured rib. Though he's optimistic about…read more

Reportedly has rib fracture

Higgins suffered a rib fracture in Sunday's 27-3 loss to the Titans that could cause the wideout to miss some time, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Look for added context regarding Higgins' status to arrive in the coming days, but the wideout's availability for next Sunday's game against the Cardinals could be impacted by his rib injury. If Higgins is out or limited next weekend, Trenton Irwin and Andrei Iosivas would be in line to see added snaps behind Ja'Marr Chase and Tyler Boyd.

Injures ribs Sunday

Higgins won't return to Sunday's game against the Titans due to a rib injury.

Analysis: Prior to being forced out of the contest, Higgins caught two of his four targets for 19 yards. In his absence, Trenton Irwin and Andrei Iosivas are candidates to see added WR snaps behind Ja'Marr Chase and Tyler Boyd.

Down game on MNF

Higgins was held to two receptions (on eight targets) for 21 yards in Monday's 19-16 win over the Rams.

Analysis: Higgins was unable to build off of his monster two-score game from Week 2 against the Ravens, instead reverting to his Week 1 form, when he posted a bagel on eight targets. The 24-year-old was able to grab two of his eight targets this time around, but he still harbors an ugly 36 percent catch rate through three games. Joe Burrow (calf) has been limited by injury to begin the season, and it has clearly affected the rhythm between him and his top targets. Until the franchise quarterback starts…read more

Big rebound in Week 2

Higgins had eight catches for 89 yards and two touchdowns in the Bengals' Week 12 loss to the Ravens.

Analysis: After getting shut out last week, Higgins led the Bengals' receiving corps in catches, yards and targets, taking advantage of the absence of the Ravens' Marlon Humphrey. Higgins and the Bengals next face the Rams on Monday night.

No catches in season opener

Higgins finished without a catch on eight targets in Sunday's 24-3 loss to the Browns.

Analysis: After failing to work out a contract extension with the Bengals prior to the season, Higgins started this potential contract year with a goose egg. Higgins was blanked on three first-half targets as Joe Burrow threw for just 36 yards and the Bengals took a 10-0 deficit into the locker room. Things didn't get any better after halftime, as Burrow finished with just 82 yards and Higgins remained catch-less. Higgins topped 1,000 yards in each of the previous two seasons, so he's likely to shake off…read more

Not close on contract extension

Higgins and the Bengals are "not close" on a long-term contract extension, Kelsey Conway of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports.

Analysis: Unless something "shocking" happens in the next 24 hours, Higgins is not expected to have a new deal prior to Week 1. Higgins has already stated he plans to play with or without a new deal as he enters the final year of his rookie contract. Higgins is not listed on the injury report and will bookend Ja'Marr Chase against the Browns on Sunday.

Back practicing

Higgins returned to practice Wednesday with a compression sleeve on his right leg, Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Higgins is back on the field in full pads after an awkward landing that occurred Monday. Despite the compression sleeve, there are no indications at this point that the 2020 second-round pick is still dealing with any lingering injury. It's also possible that some of Higgins' precautionary absences are related to the mutual hope between he and Cincinnati that a long-term extension can be worked out prior to the start of the regular season.

Sitting out some drills

Higgins has sat out some of the Bengals' full-team drills during this training camp as a precaution Sports Illustrated's James Rapien reports.

Analysis: The Bengals and Higgins are still hoping to come to terms on a long-term deal before the season begins, which might explain why he and the Bengals are taking extra precautions this summer. It's possible that he sits out of all three preseason games.

Team hoping for deal before season

The Bengals are hoping to agree to an extension with Higgins prior to the start of the 2023 regular season, James Rapien of SI.com reports.

Analysis: Extending Higgins is viewed as a greater priority than doing so with DJ Reader or Chidobe Awuzie. The Bengals still are hoping to go into this season with long-term contracts in place for both Joe Burrow (calf) and Higgins. The Burrow-to-Higgins connection has been among the NFL's most effective since the quarterback and receiver came into the league in 2020, as Higgins has compiled 3,028 receiving yards and 19 touchdowns heading into the fourth and final year of his rookie contract.

Present for voluntary workouts

Higgins took part in the Bengals' voluntary offseason workout Wednesday, Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Prominent players in contract years often skip the voluntary portions of offseason programs and sometimes the mandatory parts as well. Higgins' decision to do otherwise in the final year of his rookie deal suggests he's optimistic about signing an extension or doesn't mind playing out the season without one. He's been mentioned in trade rumors for a while due to the expectation of quarterback Joe Burrow and receiver Ja'Marr Chase signing extensions that take up a big chunk of Cincinnati's…read more

Scores TD in championship game loss

Higgins caught six of 11 targets for 83 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 23-20 AFC Championship Game loss to the Chiefs.

Analysis: Higgins played second fiddle to Ja'Marr Chase in Cincinnati's previous two playoff games, but the former led the team in both targets and receiving yards in this hotly contested AFC title matchup. His biggest play was a 27-yard touchdown, which tied the score at 13 apiece in the third quarter. Higgins recorded his second consecutive 1,000-yard regular season before adding 148 yards and one touchdown across three postseason contests. The 24-year-old wide receiver has established himself as a key…read more

Just three catches

Higgins caught three of four targets for 28 yards in Sunday's 27-10 win over the Bills in the AFC divisional round.

Analysis: Higgins had another quiet outing by his standards, as he's now totaled just seven grabs for 65 yards through Cincinnati's first two playoff games. To his credit, though, Higgins drew an important defensive pass-interference call on a third down to begin the fourth quarter, ultimately helping the Bengals extend their lead. After Sunday's victory, Higgins will next face the Chiefs in the AFC Championship Game. Against Kansas City in Week 13 of the regular season, Higgins caught three passes for…read more

Modest production in playoff win

Higgins caught four of six targets for 37 yards and added a two-point conversion in Sunday's 24-17 wild-card round win over the Ravens.

Analysis: Higgins was kept in check by the Ravens again but got free for a two-point conversion to put Cincinnati up 17-10 in the third quarter. He had the same number of targets and catches as tight end Hayden Hurst, while Ja'Marr Chase led all Bengals pass catchers with nine catches for 84 yards and a touchdown on 12 targets. Higgins will look to raise his game against the Bills in the AFC divisional round.

Full practice Thursday

Higgins (illness) returned to a full practice Thursday, Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: After missing Wednesday's practice, Higgins' return to all activity Thursday paves the way for the wideout to be available for Sunday's playoff opener against the Ravens. Higgins is coming off a one-catch effort in the Bengals' Week 18 win over Baltimore, but he's a bounce-back candidate this weekend, given that he averaged 4.6 catches and 64.3 receiving yards while recording seven TDs over the course of 16 regular-season outings.

Back at practice

Higgins (illness) returned to practice Thursday, Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports.

Analysis: Higgins sat out Wednesday's session, but his return to the field a day later puts him on track to suit up for Sunday night's playoff game against the Ravens. The Bengals' upcoming injury report is slated to clarify Higgins' official participation level in his return to on-field work.

Misses practice Wednesday

Bengals head coach Zac Taylor said Higgins didn't practice Wednesday due to an illness, Kelsey Conway of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports.

Analysis: Higgins now has two more chances to practice as Sunday's wild-card round matchup against the Ravens approaches, but the wideout's absence from Wednesday's session makes his status work tracking. He's coming off a quiet effort in the Bengals' 27-16 win over Baltimore this past Sunday, when he caught just one of his seven targets for seven yards.

Not seen at practice

Higgins doesn't appear to be practicing Wednesday, Jay Morrison of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Higgins dealt with a concussion, toe injury and an ankle sprain in the first half of the season and a hamstring injury for the first three weeks of December. The Bengals' practice report Wednesday should reveal if Higgins' absence is due to an aggravation of the hamstring injury or something else.

Struggles in Week 18

Higgins recorded one catch on seven targets for seven yards in Sunday's 27-16 win over the Ravens.

Analysis: Higgins finished tied for second on the team in targets with Tyler Boyd, though he struggled to get on the same page with Joe Burrow. Higgins had a particularly inconsistent close to the regular season, as he had three games with at least 100 receiving yards but also had 35 or fewer yards in four other contests. Despite the poor close to the regular season, Higgins will likely remain one of Burrow's most targeted pass catchers during Cincinnati's postseason run.

Excels in plus matchup

Higgins had eight catches for 128 yards and a touchdown on nine targets in Saturday's win over the Patriots.

Analysis: Higgins was featured early and often as the Bengals jumped out to a 22-0 lead at halftime, but the Bengals looked his way a lot less frequently in the second half. On multiple occasions, Higgins drew Marcus Jones in single coverage and was able to post him up successfully. The TD catch was Higgins' fourth over the past five games.

Logs full practice

Higgins (hamstring) was a full practice participant Wednesday, Jay Morrison of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Listed as a limited participant the day before, Higgins now appears locked in for Saturday's game in New England, though his hamstring injury has already caused a few anxious moments for fantasy managers this month. He played 80 percent of offensive snaps in this past Sunday's 34-23 win over Tampa Bay, catching five of eight targets for 33 yards and a touchdown.

Listed as limited

Higgins (hamstring) is listed as a limited participant on Tuesday's practice report estimate, Jay Morrison of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Higgins was present for the walkthrough with Cincinnati on a short week ahead of Saturday's game against the Patriots. His recovery from a hamstring injury has been an adventure in the second half of the season, but Higgins was able to handle 80 percent of the snaps and eight targets, leading to a 5-33-1 receiving line, in Sunday's 34-23 win over Tampa Bay. A similar workload this Saturday wouldn't come as any surprise.

Bounces back with TD

Higgins (hamstring) caught five of eight targets for 33 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 34-23 win over Tampa Bay.

Analysis: Higgins was able to suit up after lasting just one snap before injuring his hamstring in Week 14. The third-year standout didn't suffer any setbacks in his return and rewarded fantasy managers with his sixth score of the season. The Bengals will take on the Patriots, who are notorious for shading extra coverage towards the opposing team's top wideout (Ja'Marr Chase in this case), in Week 16. With that in mind, Higgins could be asked to take on more than his usual No. 2 wideout duties if Chase…read more

Suits up Sunday

Higgins (hamstring) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Buccaneers, Ben Baby of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: As is fellow wideout Tyler Boyd (finger), which is good news for Cincinnati's Week 15 passing attack, with top tight end Hayden Hurst (calf) unavailable. Higgins was limited to just one snap in Week 14 due to his hamstring issue, but after being limited at practice Wednesday and Thursday, the 2020 second-rounder was listed as a full participant Friday. That practice pattern suggests he has a chance of seeing closer to his normal workload this time around, in the absence of any in-game setbacks.

Expected to face Buccaneers

Higgins (hamstring), who is listed as questionable, is expected to suit up for Sunday's contest against the Buccaneers, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Higgins and fellow wideout Tyler Boyd (finger) are both expected to be available Sunday, though top tight end Hayden Hurst (calf) is ruled out. After Higgins was limited to just one snap Week 14 due to his hamstring issue, however, fantasy managers will still want to monitor his official status when Cincinnati's inactive list is revealed 90 minutes ahead of Sunday's 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff.

Practices fully, listed as questionable

Higgins (hamstring) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Buccaneers after being listed as a full practice participant Friday, Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: The same applies to Tyler Boyd (finger), which makes the duo's status worth confirming ahead of Sunday's 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff. That said, Geoff Hobson of the Bengals' official site notes that there is optimism from coach Zac Taylor, as well as the wideouts, that both Higgins and Boyd will be active this weekend.

Expects to play Sunday

Higgins (hamstring) noted Friday that he expects to play Sunday against the Buccaneers, Andrew Gillis of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Analysis: Meanwhile, Geoff Hobson of the Bengals' official site relays that in reference to the Week 15 statuses of both Higgins and Tyler Boyd (finger), coach Zac Taylor indicated that he "feel(s) good about it." Friday's final injury report will clarify whether one or both of the wideouts head into the weekend with injury designations.

Another limited practice

Higgins (hamstring) remained limited at practice Thursday, Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: As did Tyler Boyd (finger), which gives both wideouts a chance to play Sunday against the Buccaneers. Higgins, who was limited to just one snap Week 14 due to his hamstring issue, likely will need to practice fully Friday, however, in order to avoid a Week 15 injury designation.

Logs limited practice

Higgins (hamstring) was a limited participant at practice Wednesday, Kelsey Conway of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports.

Analysis: Tyler Boyd (finger) also was limited, with head coach Zac Taylor having previously noted that the two receivers are viewed as day-to-day ahead of Sunday's game at Tampa Bay, per Conway. Higgins' hamstring issue limited him to just one snap in the Week 14 win over the Browns, while Boyd suffered a dislocated finger in that contest and played just two snaps.

Considered day-to-day

Coach Zac Taylor said Monday that Higgins (hamstring) is day-to-day, Ben Baby of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Higgins played just one offensive snap Week 14 due to a right hamstring issue that he aggravated during pregame warmups. Tyler Boyd (finger) also suffered an injury Sunday, and both wideouts now are considered day-to-day. Given Taylor's comments, fantasy mangers will have to monitor the Bengals' practice reports throughout Week 15 prep for further clarity on which wideouts will be available Sunday against Tampa Bay.

Hamstring being evaluated

Higgins (hamstring) is undergoing further medical evaluation Monday, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Higgins suffered a right hamstring injury during warmups prior to kickoff of Sunday's win over the Browns. The Bengals' initial hope is that Higgins avoided a severe issue. Meanwhile, Tyler Boyd reportedly is in danger of missing one or two games due to a dislocated finger, testing Cincinnati's depth at wideout Week 15 against Tampa Bay.

Injured in warmups

Higgins aggravated his hamstring injury in warmups, according to Bengals coach Zac Taylor in his postgame press conference, Kelsey Conway of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports.

Analysis: Higgins' absence in the game had a pronounced effect on the Bengals' offense early in the win over the Browns, and it was naturally devastating for fantasy managers who'd relied on the fact he'd been removed from the injury report heading into the weekend.

Exits game with hamstring injury

Higgins was forced out of Sunday's game against the Browns with a right hamstring injury.

Analysis: Prior to the team's announcement that he was dealing with a hamstring injury, Higgins did not catch a pass. The wideout was limited at practice by a hamstring issue leading up to Sunday's contest, so it's possible that he suffered a setback versus Cleveland.

No injury designation for Week 14

Higgins (hamstring) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Browns.

Analysis: Higgins was limited in practices Thursday and Friday, but he isn't in danger of sitting out. He'll face a Browns team that blew out the Bengals back in Week 8, though Higgins scored one of his five touchdowns this season in that loss.

Expected to play Sunday

Bengals head coach Zac Taylor said Friday that Higgins (hamstring) is expected to play Sunday against the Browns, Ben Baby of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Per Baby, Higgins was in uniform for Friday's walk-through session after being limited in practice Thursday due to a hamstring injury. The Bengals' upcoming practice report will reveal whether Higgins heads into the weekend with an official injury designation or if he's fully cleared to play against Cleveland.

Added to injury report

Higgins (hamstring) was listed as limited at practice Thursday, Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Higgins practiced fully Wednesday, so his addition to the Bengals' injury report is notable and could be indicative of an in-practice setback Thursday. Added context regarding Higgins' status for Sunday's game against the Browns will arrive no later than Friday, but if he ends up out or limited this weekend, Trenton Irwin would be a candidate to see added snaps Week 14 alongside Ja'Marr Chase and Tyler Boyd.

Three catches in big victory

Higgins was held to three catches for 35 yards in Sunday's win over the Chiefs, but two of them were among the biggest in the game. He scored the Bengals' second touchdown of the contest on his first catch and recorded the final catch of the game with a 14-yard reception that converted a third-and-11 in the fourth quarter, leading to two kneel-downs to end the contest.

Analysis: Higgins officially had only five targets but was targeted on a penalty against the Chiefs and on another occasion was targeted in the end zone only for the Bengals to get called for a penalty away from the ball. Now that Ja'Marr Chase is back, opposing defenses will have to decide where to shift their coverage, meaning there could still be weeks when Higgins goes off.

Another huge day

Higgins had seven catches for 114 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's win over the Titans.

Analysis: Higgins and Joe Burrow found multiple occasions where Higgins had man-to-man coverage on the outside and exploited it. Both the go-ahead touchdown and a subsequent big play on the game-clinching drive were under those conditions. Higgins likely will get teammate Ja'Marr Chase (hip) back next weekend against the Chiefs, but he's demonstrating that he is a No. 1 receiver and will likely get paid as such this offseason.

Season-high yardage performance

Higgins caught nine passes for 148 yards on 13 targets in Sunday's win over the Steelers.

Analysis: Higgins took a quarter to warm up, but once he got going he was nearly impossible for the Steelers to stop. He briefly left the game after landing hard on his hip right before halftime, but he returned and played well in the second half.

Quiet again in absence of Chase

Higgins recorded seven receptions on eight targets for 60 yards in Sunday's 42-21 win over the Panthers.

Analysis: Higgins had a relatively strong performance in the sense that he commanded eight targets on Joe Burrow's 28 pass attempts, and he also led the team in targets, receptions and yards. However, Joe Mixon accounted for five of Cincinnati's touchdowns on the day, leaving Higgins without the chance to reach the end zone. In addition, Cincinnati had a 35-0 lead at halftime, limiting passing volume in the final two quarters. While neither stat line is necessarily an indication of Higgins' quality of…read more

Late TD saves forgettable night

Higgins caught three of six targets for 49 yards and a touchdown in Monday's 32-13 loss to the Browns.

Analysis: Increased defensive attention in Ja'Marr Chase's (hip) absence gave Higgins trouble in the first half, as he caught only two of five targets for eight yards. He wasn't thrown to again until the Bengals were trailing 32-6 in the fourth quarter, but Higgins salvaged his fantasy night with a 41-yard touchdown catch on his only target of the second half. Higgins' ability to win jump balls downfield gives him a high ceiling week in and week out, and he'll likely see more consistent usage as Joe…read more

Looks like new top target

Higgins is expected to step in as the Bengals' top target in the passing game with Ja'Marr Chase (hip) likely to be sidelined for 4-to-6 weeks, Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports.

Analysis: Chase's expected absence creates a major void in the Cincinnati passing game, as he had been averaging a robust 10.6 targets per game through the first seven weeks of the season. Higgins (6.3 TPG), Tyler Boyd (5.4 TPG) and Hayden Hurst (5.6 TPG) had already seen a fair amount of looks in the passing attack as well, but all three players should see their respective fantasy outlooks improve while the Bengals aim to replace Chase's production. Even while Chase was healthy, Higgins already shaped…read more

Makes most of limited opportunities

Higgins recorded five receptions on seven targets for 93 yards in Sunday's 25-17 win over the Falcons.

Analysis: Higgins finished fourth on the team in targets but was plenty efficient with his opportunity. Three of his five receptions went for more than 20 yards, and he narrowly missed on a bigger performance after being tackled at the one-yard line midway through the third quarter. After a few games being hobbled by an ankle injury, Higgins looked to be closer to full strength -- a good sign for his potential production moving forward.

Full practice Thursday

Higgins (ankle) practiced fully Thursday, Athletic writer Jay Morrison reports.

Analysis: Higgins' return to full practice participation is an encouraging development as he tries to shake his lingering ankle issue, and perhaps this marks his full or nearly full recovery from the injury. Higgins should look more like his usual self against Atlanta on Sunday.

Limited at practice

Higgins (ankle) was a limited practice participant Wednesday, Jay Morrison of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Higgins played 86 percent of snaps in Sunday's win over the Saints and caught six of 10 targets for 47 yards. He thus seems likely to handle a full workload this Sunday against the Falcons, having seen seven or more targets in each of his four full games this season. He's left early with injuries in Cincinnati's other two games.

Commands 10 targets Sunday

Higgins (ankle) had six receptions (10 targets) for 47 yards in Sunday's 30-26 win over the Saints.

Analysis: Higgins was a game-time decision after injuring his ankle early in last week's loss to Baltimore, so it was encouraging to see him start and finish this contest. The 23-year-old couldn't match teammate Ja'Marr Chase's monster fantasy line (7/132/2), but Higgins churned out a solid game considering his health status coming into the contest. A healthy Higgins could feast on a bottom-five ranked Falcons defense next Sunday.

Cleared to play Sunday

Higgins (ankle) is active for Sunday's game against the Saints.

Analysis: Considered a true game-time decision leading up to Sunday after managing just one limited practice this week due to the ankle injury he aggravated in the Bengals' Oct. 9 loss to the Ravens, Higgins received the green light to play after he looked to be moving around well in pregame warmups, per Kelsey Conway of The Cincinnati Enquirer. Though the Bengals haven't indicated that Higgins will be on any sort of limited snap count, fantasy managers should keep expectations for the wideout in check…read more

Considered game-time decision

Higgins (ankle), who is officially questionable for Sunday's contest against the Saints, is viewed as a game-time decision, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: The Bengals won't make a decision about Higgins' status before monitoring him in pregame workouts, so fantasy managers likely won't get confirmation about his availability until the team releases its inactive list 90 minutes prior to Sunday's 1 p.m. ET kickoff. The wideout was listed as a limited participant at Friday's practice after missing sessions Wednesday and Thursday with the sprained ankle.

Questionable for Sunday's game

Higgins (ankle) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Saints after practicing Friday on a limited basis.

Analysis: Per Jay Morrison of The Athletic, Higgins profiles as a game-time decision for the contest, but fortunately for those considering the wideout in Week 6 fantasy lineups, the Bengals kick off among the early wave of games at 1 p.m. ET. If Higgins is out or limited this weekend, Mike Thomas would be in line to see added snaps versus New Orleans alongside Ja'Marr Chase and Tyler Boyd.

Logs limited practice

Higgins (ankle), who returned to practice Friday as a limited participant, is considered day-to-day ahead of Sunday's game against the Saints, Kelsey Conway of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports.

Analysis: Per Conway, Higgins could end up being a game-time decision for the contest. With that in mind, the Bengals will likely list the wideout as questionable for Sunday's game, which kicks off at 1 p.m. ET.

Spotted at practice Friday

Higgins (ankle) was present for Friday's practice, Geoff Hobson of the Bengals' official site reports.

Analysis: After not practicing both Wednesday and Thursday, Higgins' return to the field Friday is a step in the right direction. The Bengals' upcoming injury report will clarify the wideout's participation level and injury designation ahead of Sunday's game against the Saints.

Not practicing Thursday

Higgins (ankle) wasn't in uniform for Thursday's practice, Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: The report notes that the wideout headed to the rehab field Thursday, so Higgins now is destined to be listed as a non-participant at practice for the second day in a row. He'll have one more chance to practice in advance of Sunday's game against the Saints, but unless Higgins is able to log a full practice Friday, he figures to head into the weekend with a Week 6 injury designation.

Sits out practice after all

Higgins (ankle) didn't practice Wednesday, Jay Morrison of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: An earlier report suggested Higgins should practice in some capacity Wednesday, but he'll start the week as a non-participant following his early exit from a 19-17 loss in Baltimore this past Sunday. A return to practice Thursday or Friday would give Higgins a shot to suit up in New Orleans this Sunday, with Mike Thomas on hand to fill in if that doesn't happen.

Will be limited Wednesday

Higgins (ankle) is in line to practice in a limited fashion Wednesday, Kelsey Conway of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports.

Analysis: Higgins was limited to 10 snaps on offense in Sunday's 19-17 loss to the Ravens after aggravating an ankle sprain that had limited him in practice last week. Given that the wideout is slated to practice Wednesday -- albeit in a limited capacity -- Higgins has a chance to play this weekend against the Saints, but he'll need to practice fully by Friday in order to avoid taking an injury designation into Sunday.

Called day-to-day

Coach Zac Taylor said Monday that Higgins (ankle) is day-to-day, Marisa Contipelli of the Bengals' official site reports.

Analysis: Higgins aggravated an existing ankle sprain during Sunday's 19-17 loss to the Ravens, in which he played just 10 snaps. It's encouraging that the standout receiver was able to avoid a severe injury, but it remains to be seen whether Higgins will be able to suit up versus the Saints in Week 6. His status on Wednesday's first official practice report of the week will be illuminating.

Aggravates ankle issue Week 5

Higgins, who was on the field for 10 snaps on offense in Sunday's 19-17 loss to the Ravens, aggravated the ankle injury that had limited him in practice leading up to the contest when he was rolled up on during the first half, Jay Morrison of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Per Morrison, the wideout wasn't able to return to the game after coming off the field during the Bengals' fourth offensive series. Afterward, Higgins downplayed the issue, suggesting that he erred on the side of caution Sunday in order to avoid any further setbacks. With that in mind, Higgins sounds like he hopes to play Week 6 against the Saints, but he'll likely have his practice reps limited in the coming days.

Return to SNF questionable

Higgins (ankle) is questionable to return to Sunday's game against the Ravens.

Analysis: Higgins' injury was announced early in the second half, but he spent most of the first half on the sidelines as well and didn't record a catch. He was attempting to tough it out after hurting his ankle in Week 4, but the injury appears to be worse than Higgins and the Bengals initially thought.

Suiting up in Week 5

Higgins (ankle) is listed as active for Sunday night's game against the Ravens.

Analysis: Higgins, who left the Bengals' Week 4 win over the Dolphins briefly due to an ankle issue, was able to return to the contest en route to recording seven catches for 124 yards and a touchdown. Though he was limited at practice this past week, he'll be out there Sunday, and barring any in-game setbacks he's in line to continue to see his share of targets from quarterback Joe Burrow against a Baltimore defense that to date is allowing an NFL-high 315.3 passing yards per outing. Four games into the…read more

Should play Sunday

Higgins (ankle), who is listed as questionable, is expected to play Sunday against the Ravens, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Higgins left the team's Week 4 win over the Dolphins briefly after picking up an ankle injury, but he returned to the contest and finished with seven receptions for 124 yards and one touchdown. Barring a setback, the third-year wideout appears in line to suit up for Sunday's primetime matchup, but fantasy managers should still confirm his status ahead of the 8:20 p.m. ET kickoff.

Status in question for Week 5

Higgins (ankle) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game at Baltimore.

Analysis: During the Bengals' Week 4 win against the Dolphins, Higgins left the game for a spell in the second half to have his leg checked out by team trainers, but he returned and finished with season highs in catches (seven) and yards (124) while scoring his second TD of the campaign. This week, he's been operating with limitations on his practice reps, entering the weekend with his status up in the air. Coach Zac Taylor told Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer on Friday that he's confident…read more

Stays limited Thursday

Higgins (ankle) was a limited participant at Thursday's practice, Geoff Hobson of the Bengals' official site reports.

Analysis: The Bengals haven't yet sounded the alarm about the possibility of Higgins sitting out Sunday's game against the Ravens, but the wideout has had his reps capped for two straight days while he manages the ankle injury. He may need to take part in Friday's practice as a full participant to avoid taking an injury designation into the weekend.

Logs limited practice

Higgins (ankle) was a limited participant at practice Wednesday, Geoff Hobson of the Bengals' official site reports.

Analysis: Ben Baby of ESPN.com previously relayed that the ankle issue Higgins sustained when the Bengals beat the Dolphins last Thursday was nothing major, but the wideout's limitations to begin Week 5 make his status worth monitoring in advance of this Sunday's game against the Ravens. Four games into the season, Higgins has recorded 20 catches on 28 targets for a team-high 315 receiving yards and two touchdowns.

Ankle injury not major

Higgins suffered an ankle injury during Thursday's win over the Dolphins, but it isn't major, Ben Baby of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Higgins will have 10 days to recover ahead of Cincinnati's contest against Baltimore in Week 5, which should boost his chances of not missing time. The third-year pro looked excellent versus Miami despite nicking up his ankle, securing seven of nine targets for 124 yards and a touchdown. The 23-year-old's injury briefly forced him out during the second half of Thursday Night Football, but he was able to retake the field.

Paces air attack in win

Higgins brought in seven of nine targets for 124 yards and a touchdown in the Bengals' 27-15 win over the Dolphins on Thursday night.

Analysis: The highlight of Higgins' spectacular night came on a 59-yard touchdown grab down the left sideline on which he beat Xavien Howard, and the third-year wideout finished with team-leading reception, receiving yardage and target totals for the night. Higgins also briefly left the game in the second half to have his leg checked out by trainers, per Charlie Goldsmith of the Cincinnati Enquirer, but after testing it out briefly, he returned to the game. Higgins, and not Ja'Marr Chase, has been the…read more

Ready for Thursday

Higgins (toe) doesn't have an injury designation for Thursday's game against Miami.

Analysis: The Bengals listed him as a limited participant Monday before upgrading the wideout to full participation Tuesday and Wednesday. The Week 4 matchup appears to favor Higgins since the Dolphins often deploy top corner Xavien Howard (groin) in shadow coverage, which in this case likely would mean that Howard follows Ja'Marr Chase for much of the game.

Practices in full

Higgins (toe) was a full participant at Tuesday's practice ahead of Thursday's matchup against the Dolphins, Daniel Oyefusi of the Miami Herald reports.

Analysis: Higgins popped up on the Bengals' injury report with a toe issue during Monday's walkthrough, but that now does not seem to be an issue of concern. Barring any setbacks, the 23-year-old looks on track take on his usual workload against Miami.

Dealing with toe issue

Higgins (toe) is listed as a limited participant on Monday's estimated practice report, per Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer.

Analysis: Higgins caught five of seven targets for 93 yards during Sunday's win at the Jets. He took a helmet-to-helmet hit from Lamarcus Joyner that drew a flag in the first half, but he wasn't forced to miss any time. However, Higgins landed on the injury report Monday with a toe issue. The extent of the concern remains unclear, but it's something to monitor, especially with the Bengals on a short turnaround between games.

Totals 93 yards in win

Higgins caught five of seven targets for 93 yards in Sunday's 27-12 win over the Jets.

Analysis: Higgins finished 12 yards shy of Tyler Boyd's team lead in receiving yards while trailing Ja'Marr Chase by one catch and three targets. He took a helmet-to-helmet hit that drew a flag on Jets safety Lamarcus Joyner in the first half, but Higgins emerged from the play unscathed. Higgins has seen his yardage totals climb from 27 to 71 to 93 in the first three games, so he's trending in the right direction heading into Thursday's visit from the Dolphins.

Finds end zone in Week 2 loss

Higgins caught six of 10 targets for 71 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 20-17 loss to the Cowboys.

Analysis: The status of the third-year wideout was up in the air coming into the game due to a concussion, but he cleared the league's protocols and wound up leading the Bengals in receptions, targets and yards while catching Joe Burrow's only TD pass. Higgins likely benefited from the fact that Trevon Diggs was matched up against Ja'Marr Chase, but both Cincy receivers could be productive in Week 3 against a seemingly vulnerable Jets secondary that just surrendered a 9-101-1 line to Amari Cooper after…read more

Active for Week 2

Higgins (concussion/personal) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Cowboys, Marisa Contipelli of the Bengals' official site reports.

Analysis: Higgins sustained a concussion during the Bengals' season-opening loss to the Steelers, but he'll be in uniform Sunday, and barring any in-game setbacks, is in line to be a key Week 2 target for QB Joe Burrow alongside fellow wideouts Ja'Marr Chase and Tyler Boyd. Prior to his exit from last weekend's contest, Higgins logged 26 snaps en route to catching both of his targets for 27 yards.

Expected to play, barring setback

Higgins (concussion), who is listed as questionable for Sunday's game in Dallas, is expected to play, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Higgins has reportedly progressed through the concussion protocol in time to earn clearance for Week 2, barring any pregame setbacks. The Bengals will make his status official roughly 90 minutes prior to Sunday's 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff. Higgins secured both of his targets for 27 yards versus the Steelers in Week 1 before leaving the field.

Status in question for Week 2

Higgins (concussion/personal) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game at Dallas.

Analysis: Higgins sustained a concussion during the Bengals' season-opening loss to the Steelers. Week 2 prep has included a limited session Wednesday, no practice Thursday due to personal reasons and a full listing Friday. Higgins has nearly completed his quest through the NFL's protocol for head injuries, but his status may not be confirmed until 90 minutes before Sunday's 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff.

Back at practice

Higgins (personal) returned to practice Friday, Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports.

Analysis: The Bengals' looming Week 2 injury report will clarify whether Higgins, who missed Thursday's practice for personal reasons, was a limited or full participant, but the wideout still needs to progress through the NFL's concussion protocol in order to be cleared to play in Sunday's game against the Cowboys.

Set to miss practice Thursday

Higgins (personal) won't practice Thursday, Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports.

Analysis: The wideout, who is in the NFL's concussion protocol, was a limited participant at practice Wednesday, but he'll miss Thursday's session for personal reasons. Look for added clarity with regard to Higgins' status for Sunday's game against the Cowboys to arrive once the Bengals' Friday injury report is posted.

Will be limited Wednesday

Head coach Zac Taylor said Higgins is making good progress through the NFL's concussion protocol, but the wideout will be a limited participant at practice Wednesday, Ben Baby of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Higgins will have two more opportunities to upgrade to full participation ahead of Sunday's game against the Cowboys, and it appears as though he's trending in the right direction on that front. Prior to his exit from the Bengals' Week 1 loss to the Steelers, Higgins logged 26 snaps while catching both of his targets for 27 yards.

Concussion confirmed

Higgins will not return to Sunday's game against the Steelers after suffering a concussion.

Analysis: Higgins thus finishes up the contest with two catches (on two targets) for 27 yards. The wideout will now look to gain medical clearance in the coming days in advance of next Sunday's road contest against the Cowboys.

Possible concussion

Higgins was forced out of Sunday's game against the Steelers with a possible concussion.

Analysis: With Higgins, who caught two passes for 27 yards prior to his exit, sidelined Sunday, Ja'Marr Chase and Tyler Boyd are slated to work as the Bengals' primary wideout options for the rest of Sunday's contest.

Exits Sunday's game

Higgins headed to the locker room during Sunday's game against the Steelers after absorbing a hit on a route down the middle, Ben Baby of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Prior to his exit from the contest, Higgins had caught both of his targets for 27 yards. In his absence, Ja'Marr Chase and Tyler Boyd will serve as the Bengals' primary wideout options.

Good to go for Week 1

Higgins (shoulder) isn't listed on the Bengals' Week 1 injury report released Wednesday.

Analysis: Higgins will be ready to go for Sunday's season opener against the Steelers after making a full recovery from the surgery he underwent in March to repair a torn labrum. The third-year wideout will reprise his role as a key receiving option for quarterback Joe Burrow this season alongside fellow starting receivers Ja'Marr Chase and Tyler Boyd. While playing alongside Chase and Boyd during his sophomore campaign, Higgins logged a fantasy-friendly 74-1,091-6 receiving line over 14 regular-season…read more

Back at practice

Higgins (shoulder) returned to practice Monday, Kelsey Conway of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports.

Analysis: Higgins has been managing a shoulder issue ahead of Week 1, so his presence on the field Monday bodes well for his availability for Sunday's season opener against the Steelers. Added clarity on that front should arrive by Wednesday once the Bengals post their official injury report following practice.

Not seen at practice

Higgins (shoulder) doesn't appear to be practicing Wednesday, Ben Baby of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Higgins was limited for most of training camp after undergoing surgery in March to repair a torn labrum, as he didn't make his debut in 11-on-11 drills in practice until Aug. 14. He should have enough time to be ready to go for Week 1, though an absence from practice 11 days before Cincinnati's season opener doesn't exactly inspire confidence.

Not expected to play Sunday

Higgins (shoulder) is among the Bengals starters not in line to play in Sunday's preseason game against the Giants, Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports.

Analysis: Higgins, who is bouncing back from an offseason procedure to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder, has seen some action in 11-on-11 drills of late. Per Goldsmith, Higgins was among the Bengals going through some pregame conditioning Sunday, a group that also included fellow key wideouts Ja'Marr Chase and Tyler Boyd.

Joins 11-on-11 drills Sunday

Higgins (shoulder) participated in 11-on-11 drills during Sunday's practice, Kelsey Conway of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports.

Analysis: Higgins, who is bouncing back from an offseason procedure to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder, continues to progress in his recovery from the injury, and while it wouldn't surprise us if the Bengals erred on the side of caution with the wideout during the preseason, the 2020 second-rounder remains on track for Week 1.

Should resume team work soon

Higgins (shoulder) could return to team drills next week, with head coach Zac Taylor noting that the wideout is ready to go and looks good but won't be rushed by the Bengals, Geoff Hobson of the team's official site reports.

Analysis: Higgins remains on track for Week 1 after March labrum surgery kept him out of the offseason program and most of training camp. He actually suffered the injury in Week 2 last season, so while there's always a bit of added risk with a player returning from offseason surgery, one could also make the case that he has a chance to be healthier than he was in 2021, when he caught 74 passes for 1,091 yards and six touchdowns despite missing three games. Higgins has been a limited participant in…read more

Making progress

Higgins is bouncing back from an offseason procedure to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder and participated in one-on-one drills for the first time in training camp during Monday's practice, Geoff Hobson of the Bengals' official site reports.

Analysis: Per the report, Higgins looked sharp in doing so, but the wideout is still easing his way back into team drills. "There's no reason to rush it. You have to take time with things like this," Higgins noted. "Even if I am back before expected, that's always great, but I'm never going to rush this type of injury." With that in mind, Kelsey Conway of Cincinnati Enquirer suggests that it seems unlikely at this point that Higgins will see any game action during the preseason. On the plus side, the…read more

Returns to 11-on-11 drills

Higgins (shoulder) participated in 11-on-11 drills Saturday, Paul Dehner Jr.of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Though Higgins' 11-on-11 work Saturday was against the Bengals' scout team, it marked the first time in training camp that he'd done anything more than individual work. With that in mind, it appears as though the starting wideout is nearing full strength as he bounces back from an offseason procedure to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder.

Not quite at full strength

Higgins (shoulder), who reportedly was supposed to be at full strength entering training camp, has not been participating in any team drills, Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports.

Analysis: This appears to be by design as Higgins has done work in individual receiving drills, but he hasn't been a factor in any 7-vs-7 or 11-vs-11 simulations. The big-bodied target had surgery back in April to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder, which he suffered all the way back in Week 2 of the 2021 campaign, but the injury hardly impacted his play as Higgins went on to record or tie career highs in every major receiving category.

Full go for training camp

Higgins (shoulder) appears that he'll be at full capacity for the start of training camp, Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports.

Analysis: Higgins sat out the Bengals' OTAs in May after surgery to repair a torn labrum in his shoulder in March. He originally suffered the injury during the Bengals' Week 2 loss to the Bears and missed two games, but then played through it the rest of the season and playoffs.

Aiming for training camp return

Bengals head coach Zac Taylor said Higgins (shoulder) is expected to be able to participate in training camp, Kelsey Conway of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports.

Analysis: Higgins remains sidelined during Cincinnati's OTAs this week, but it appears the wideout will be ready to go for training camp in July, which suggests he shouldn't have any limitations to start the 2022 season. The 2020 second-round pick underwent labrum surgery in March and has been sidelined since, but he appears to be making good progress and is already ramping up his rehab process.

Not practicing yet

Higgins (shoulder) is present for Tuesday's practice but is not participating, Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: It's reportedly what Higgins expected, and he's no longer using a sling as he rehabs from labrum surgery in March. He'll presumably be absent or limited from offseason practices throughout May or June, but the 23-year-old wideout could make it back on the field at the end of July for the start of training camp. There's been no indication of concern about his availability for the regular season.

Bouncing back from shoulder issue

Higgins had the labrum in his left shoulder repaired last month, according to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.

Analysis: The report notes that the wideout, who was spotted at a Cincinnati Reds game Tuesday with his left arm in a sling, is expected to recover from the procedure well before training camp. This past season, the 2020 second-rounder caught 74 of his 110 targets for 1,091 yards and six TDs in 14 games. In 2022, the 23-year-old will reprise his starting role in a Bengals wide receiver corps that also includes the ascending Ja'Marr Chase as well as Tyler Boyd.

Delivers long touchdown

Higgins recorded four receptions on seven targets for 100 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 23-20 Super Bowl LVI loss to the Rams.

Analysis: Higgins made the most of his four catches by tallying a pair of touchdowns in the biggest game of the season. The first came on a trick play that resulted in a six-yard pass from Joe Mixon in the back corner of the end zone. Higgins then added an explosive 75-yard touchdown on the first play of the second half when he beat Jalen Ramsey down the sideline and outraced the rest of the Rams secondary to the end zone. He was largely quiet from there, as Joe Burrow was consistently pressured, and the…read more

Big effort in AFC Championship Game

Higgins recorded six receptions on 10 targets for 103 yards in Sunday's 27-24 overtime victory over the Chiefs in the AFC Championship Game.

Analysis: Higgins led the team in targets and yards. Though he didn't find the end zone, he contributed several big plays, highlighted by a 44-yard reception early in the third quarter. Higgins also was instrumental in Cincinnati's touchdown just before halftime, when he recorded an eight-yard reception to convert a third down and another 18-yard catch one play later. After managing only one reception for 10 yards in the team's wild-card round win over Las Vegas, Higgins has posted a combined 199…read more

Bounces back, Bengals advance

Higgins recorded seven receptions on nine targets for 96 yards in Saturday's 19-16 divisional-round win over the Titans.

Analysis: Higgins bounced back from a poor performance in the wild-card round to lead the team with nine targets. He was out-gained by Ja'Marr Chase but still managed five receptions that went for double-digit gains -- the longest of which was for 22 yards. Higgins now has at least one catch that has gone for 20 or more yards in six of last eight games as the Bengals head into the AFC Championship Game.

Disappointing output in win

Higgins had only one catch for 10 yards on four targets in Saturday's win over the Raiders.

Analysis: Teammates Ja'Marr Chase and C.J. Uzomah did most of the Bengals' damage in the win. That's the one drag on Higgins' value -- the Bengals have multiple options in the passing game, so he's not guaranteed a heavy volume each week.

Cleared for playoff opener

Higgins (foot) doesn't carry an injury designation ahead of Saturday's playoff game against the Raiders.

Analysis: Though the wideout was listed as a limited practice participant Wednesday and Thursday, coach Zac Taylor downplayed Higgins' foot issue, confirming that the 2020 second-rounder is slated to play this weekend, per Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic. Higgins was among the key players rested by the Bengals in Week 18, but he's poised to suit up Saturday alongside fellow WRs Ja'Marr Chase and Tyler Boyd and should see his share of targets from QB Joe Burrow in the team's wild-card matchup.

On track to play versus Raiders

Coach Zac Taylor relayed Thursday that Higgins (foot) is line to play in Saturday's playoff opener against the Raiders, Geoff Hobson of the Bengals' official site reports.

Analysis: Higgins popped up on the team's injury report Wednesday, when he was listed as a limited practice participant due to a foot issue. However, Taylor subsequently clarified that the wideout maybe "took one or two less reps than normal," per Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic. The team's upcoming injury report will reveal whether Higgins heads into the weekend with an official injury designation or fully cleared to play Saturday.

Added to injury report

Higgins was listed as a limited participant at Wednesday's practice due to a foot injury, Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Higgins practiced fully Tuesday, so it's unclear whether his limitations a day later were maintenance-related or indicated of an in-practice setback. For his part, Ben Baby of ESPN.com noted that Higgins looked fine during the media-access portion of the session, but either way, Thursday's injury report should add a degree of clarity with regard to the wideout's status ahead of Saturday's wild-card game against the Raiders.

Not playing Week 18

Higgins (coach's decision) is a healthy inactive for Sunday's game against the Browns, Marisa Contipelli of the Bengals' official site reports.

Analysis: Cincinnati doesn't have much at stake in terms of playoff positioning in the regular-season finale, so Higgins will be one of several key contributors who will sit out or get rest Week 18. Meanwhile, star rookie Ja'Marr Chase is active, but the Bengals may just be looking to have him establish the single-season franchise receiving record -- he enters Sunday's game 12 yards short of the mark -- before having him sit the remainder of the contest. According to Geoff Hobson of the Bengals' official…read more

Overshadowed by Chase in Week 17

Higgins caught three of five targets for 62 yards in Sunday's 34-31 win over the Chiefs.

Analysis: After racking up 194 yards and two touchdowns last week, Higgins took a back seat to Ja'Marr Chase, who one-upped him with 266 yards and three touchdowns in this one. Quarterback Joe Burrow has thrown for 971 yards in the past two games, and Higgins should continue to play a prominent role in the high-powered Cincinnati passing attack in Week 18 against the Browns.

Monstrous output

Higgins caught 12 passes for 194 yards and two touchdowns on 13 targets against Baltimore on Sunday.

Analysis: The Ravens are badly beaten up on defense, most notably playing without their two top corners, but a game as big as this one is still a testament to Higgins' compelling talent, and a reminder that he and fellow wideout Ja'Marr Chase are essentially co-No.1 receivers. Quarterback Joe Burrow took whatever he wanted against the Ravens, throwing for 525 yards and four touchdowns, and Higgins was his lead target by a good margin. Higgins and the Bengals face the Chiefs in Week 17.

Sees limited opportunities

Higgins recorded two receptions on three targets for 23 yards in Sunday's 15-10 win over Denver.

Analysis: Higgins entered Sunday's game having earned at least seven targets in each of his last three games. However, offensive volume was virtually nonexistent for all Cincinnati skill-position players against Denver, as Joe Burrow took to the air only 22 times. Despite limited opportunities, Higgins still managed to display some big-play ability by ripping off a 17-yard gain early in the first quarter. He should also be in position for a bounce-back effort heading into a Week 16 matchup against a…read more

Practices fully Thursday

Higgins (ankle) returned to a full practice Thursday.

Analysis: As did QB Joe Burrow (finger), which sets the stage for the duo to suit up Sunday against the Broncos. Over his last three games, Higgins has logged a fantasy-friendly 20-366-2 stat line on 29 targets in that span.

Listed as limited Wednesday

Higgins (ankle) was a limited participant at Wednesday's practice.

Analysis: Higgins was limited last Thursday and Friday with the same injury before heading into the Bengals' Week 14 game against the 49ers listed as questionable. He was active for the team's overtime loss, playing 50 of the Bengals' 67 snaps on offense and finishing with 100-plus receiving yards for the third straight contest. With no reported setbacks coming out of that game, Higgins' limitations in practice to begin Week 15 are likely maintenance-related.

Tops century mark again in OT loss

Higgins caught five of seven targets for 114 yards in Sunday's 26-23 overtime loss to the 49ers.

Analysis: He led the Bengals in receiving yards while tying Ja'Marr Chase in catches, but it was Chase who was on the other end of both of Joe Burrow's TD passes. Higgins has reached triple-digit yardage in three straight games, posting a massive 20-366-2 line on 29 targets over that stretch, but he could have trouble making it four straight in a Week 15 clash with the Broncos.

Active for Week 14

Higgins (ankle) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the 49ers, Marisa Contipelli of the Bengals' official site reports.

Analysis: As is running back Joe Mixon (illness), which sets the stage for the Bengals to have their core skill players available for Week 14 action. Over his last two outings, Higgins has combined for a fantasy-friendly 15 catches on 22 targets for 252 yards and two TDs.

Expected to suit up Sunday

Higgins (ankle) is expected to play Sunday against the 49ers, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: The same applies to running back Joe Mixon (illness), and with QB Joe Burrow (finger/knee) already cleared to play, it looks like the Bengals will have their core skill players available for Week 14 action. Official confirmation of Higgins' status is slated to arrive when the team's inactives are posted prior to Sunday's 4:25 ET kickoff.

Questionable for Sunday

Higgins (ankle) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the 49ers.

Analysis: Higgins managed a pair of limited showings in practice this week as he tends to an ankle injury. Per Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic, there's an expectation from coach Zac Taylor that Higgins will be available this weekend, which will be confirmed about 90 minutes before Sunday's 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff. Higgins is coming off back-to-back 100-yard, one-touchdown performances, and he'll look to continue that momentum, if active, versus a San Francisco defense that has allowed 8.1 yards per target…read more

Logs limited practice

Higgins (ankle) returned to a limited practice Thursday, Jay Morrison of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: After missing Wednesday's session, Higgins' return to the field Thursday has him trending in the right direction in advance of Sunday's game against the 49ers. That said, the wideout probably will need to practice fully Friday in order to avoid carrying an official injury designation into the weekend.

Back at practice

Higgins (ankle) returned to practice Thursday, Geoff Hobson of the Bengals' official site reports.

Analysis: It remains to be seen how the Bengals list his practice participation, but Higgins' return to the field after missing Wednesday's session has him trending in the right direction as this weekend's home game against the 49ers approaches.

Misses Wednesday's practice

Higgins (ankle) didn't practice Wednesday, Jay Morrison of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Per Kelsey Conway of The Cincinnati Enquirer, Higgins tweaked his ankle during the Bengals' Week 13 loss to the Chargers, but the wideout downplayed the injury afterward. With an absence from practice to begin Week 14 prep, however, Higgins' status is worth tracking as Sunday's game against the 49ers approaches. A return to practice in any capacity Thursday would presumably put the wideout on track to suit up this weekend.

Not seen at practice

Higgins (ankle) doesn't appear to be practicing Wednesday, Ben Baby of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Higgins is coming off consecutive weeks with 100-plus receiving yards and a touchdown, despite dealing with cramping in the first game and an ankle injury late in the second one. A report issued after Sunday's loss to the Chargers suggested Higgins wasn't expected to miss time, but his absence from practice Wednesday means fantasy managers will need to keep tabs on the situation ahead of this weekend's game against the 49ers.

Stellar numbers in loss

Higgins secured nine of 14 targets for 138 yards and a touchdown in the Bengals' 41-22 loss to the Chargers on Sunday. He also tweaked his ankle during the contest but isn't expected to miss any time, Kelsey Conway of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports.

Analysis: The second-year wideout was one of the few offensive bright spots for the Bengals in a disappointing home loss, and his athletic, leaping 29-yard touchdown grab midway through the second quarter kickstarted what would be an unsuccessful comeback from a 24-0 deficit. Higgins now has back-to-back 100-yard efforts after not accomplishing the feat in the first eight games of the campaign, and assuming his ankle issue is as benign as he assesses, he should be in for another prominent role in a Week…read more

Best game of season

Higgins caught six of eight targets for 114 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 41-10 win over the Steelers.

Analysis: Higgins finally broke the century mark in his ninth start of the year, also chipping in his first touchdown since Week 2. Ja'Marr Chase has clearly been the Bengals' top receiving option this season, but the Steelers shaded more coverage his way, opening the door for his teammate to steal the glory. Higgins has been a fringe option in standard fantasy formats this season, so he will look to gain momentum off of a season-best performance heading into a Week 13 matchup against the Chargers.

Quiet in Week 11 win

Higgins caught two of three targets for 15 yards in Sunday's 32-13 win over the Raiders.

Analysis: Tyler Boyd and Ja'Marr Chase were on the other end of half of Joe Burrow's 28 pass attempts, leaving little volume left over for Higgins. The grabs, targets and receiving yards were all season lows for the second-year wideout, and Higgins will look to bounce back to his usual level of production in Week 12 against the Steelers.

Six catches in blowout loss

Higgins caught six of eight targets for 78 yards in Sunday's 41-16 loss to Cleveland.

Analysis: Higgins led the Bengals in receiving yards for the second consecutive game, but he still hasn't scored a touchdown since Week 2. The 22-year-old wide receiver scored six touchdowns last season and still has a prominent role in what has been an effective Bengals offense, so Higgins will remain a viable option in all fantasy formats after Cincinnati comes out of its Week 10 bye. He has 35 catches for 431 yards and two touchdowns in seven games played this season.

Just shy of century mark in loss

Higgins caught four of six targets for 97 yards in Sunday's 34-31 loss to the Jets.

Analysis: Higgins got lucky on a 26-yard catch down to New York's two-yard line in the second quarter, as the ball appeared to hit the ground but the Bengals got the next play off before the Jets could challenge. There was no doubt about his 54-yard gain in the third quarter. Both plays set up touchdowns, which were scored by Ja'Marr Chase and Joe Mixon, respectively. Higgins opened the season with a two-game touchdown streak but hasn't found the end zone since. He'll look to regain his scoring touch in…read more

Production trails opportunities

Higgins was targeted a whopping 15 times in a Week 7 win over the Ravens, catching seven of them for 62 yards.

Analysis: Many of Higgins' targets came early in the game, and that might have had a role in freeing up C.J. Uzomah and Ja'Marr Chase for big plays later on. Higgins hasn't yet had a big game this season, as his 62 yards were a season high and he has only two touchdowns, but the target share and air yards he's racked up suggest a breakout is coming soon.

Three catches in win

Higgins secured three of six targets for 44 yards in the Bengals' 34-11 win over the Lions on Sunday.

Analysis: Higgins was a distant second behind Ja'Marr Chase in terms of wideout receptions and receiving yardage despite logging the same number of targets. However, the second-year wideout turned in a solid performance when factoring in the fact Joe Burrow distributed the ball to eight different pass catchers overall. Higgins will look to eclipse 50 receiving yards for the first time since Week 2 when the Bengals tangle with the Ravens on the road in Week 7.

Makes five grabs

Higgins caught five of seven targets for 32 yards in Sunday's 25-22 overtime loss to the Packers. He also hauled in a successful two-point conversion.

Analysis: Higgins was utilized on underneath routes in his first appearance since Week 2. Although he had a drop late in the fourth quarter, Higgins still placed second across the board in receiving for the Bengals. The second-year target also tied the game with a two-point conversion grab in the fourth, boosting his output a bit. Higgins will now strive to build on Sunday's return with a good showing in Week 6 versus the winless Lions.

Cleared to play

Higgins (shoulder) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Packers after returning to a full practice Friday.

Analysis: Meanwhile, Bengals head coach Zac Taylor told Ben Baby of ESPN.com that Higgins looked good in practice all week, which sets the stage for the wideout to return from a two-game absence with few limitations, if any. Prior to suffering his shoulder injury, Higgins hauled in 10 of his 15 targets for 118 yards and two touchdowns in two contests.

Going through practice Friday

Higgins (shoulder) is participating at Friday's practice, Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports.

Analysis: Higgins was a limited participant at practices Wednesday and Thursday, and it's a good sign to see him on the field again Friday. The 22-year-old has missed the past two games with the shoulder injury but appears on track to return to action Sunday against the Packers, though it's unclear whether or not he'll avoid taking a questionable tag into the contest.

Logs another limited session

Higgins (shoulder) remained limited at practice Thursday, Ben Baby of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Higgins has missed two straight games, but his participation in consecutive practices, albeit in a limited fashion, has him trending toward a return to action Sunday against the Packers. With that in mind, Higgins will presumably need to upgrade to full participation Friday in order to avoid a Week 5 injury designation.

Limited in return

Higgins (shoulder) was a limited participant Wednesday in his return to practice, Jay Morrison of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Higgins looks tentatively on track for a return this Sunday against the Packers, which aligns with a recent report from Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com. Injury reports Thursday and Friday still need to be watched closely, as Higgins' return from a two-game absence is no foregone conclusion at this early stage of the week.

Set to practice Wednesday

Higgins (shoulder) will practice Wednesday, Marisa Contipelli of the Bengals' official site reports.

Analysis: The Bengals will release their first Week 5 injury report later Wednesday, when it will be revealed whether Higgins was a limited or full participant in his return to practice. Either way, the second-year wideout is trending toward playing Sunday against the Packers after sitting out the Bengals' past two games with a sore shoulder.

Could be back Week 5

The Bengals are planning on having Higgins (shoulder) available for their Week 5 game against the Packers on Oct. 10, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Higgins has already been ruled out ahead of Thursday's home game against the Jaguars, marking his second straight absence on account of the sore shoulder. The second-year receiver might have had an outside chance to play if the Bengals were hosting the Jaguars on Sunday, but the quick turnaround for the Week 4 contest didn't provide Higgins with enough time to get healthy. Higgins should benefit from the longer break before the team's matchup with the Packers, but he may still need to return to…read more

Won't play Thursday

Higgins (shoulder) won't play Thursday against the Jaguars, Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: With Higgins slated to miss his second straight game, Ja'Marr Chase and Tyler Boyd will continue to head Cincinnati's pass-catching corps Thursday. Meanwhile Auden Tate and Mike Thomas are next in line to absorb Higgins' snaps in three-receiver sets. The 2020 second-round selection will now target a potential return to action in the Bengals' Week 5 contest Oct. 10 versus the Packers.

Officially DNP

Higgins (shoulder) was listed as a non-participant in Tuesday's practice, Jay Morrison of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Higgins underwent an evaluation Tuesday to determine the extent of his injury, and it appears he didn't receive encouraging news. The 22-year-old wideout was marked as DNP for the second straight session. He's trending in the wrong direction ahead of Thursday's home matchup against the Jaguars. If Higgins sits out, Ja'Marr Chase and Tyler Boyd will serve as Joe Burrow's top receiving options.

Not participating Tuesday

Higgins (shoulder) wasn't dressed during the part of Tuesday's practice open to the media, Ben Baby of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Higgins appears poised to go down as a non-participant on a second straight injury report, after he was listed as DNP on Monday's practice estimate. It seems as if the evaluation that coach Zac Taylor said Higgins would undergo on his shoulder issue Tuesday didn't yield positive results.

No practice on Monday's estimate

Higgins (shoulder) was listed as a non-participant on Monday's practice estimate, Ben Baby of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Higgins will be reevaluated Tuesday after missing last week's win over the Steelers, but he'll be fighting an uphill battle as he tries to avoid a second consecutive absence on a short week. If the 2020 second-round pick is cleared to return, he'll face a Jacksonville secondary that will be without CJ Henderson, whom the Jaguars traded to Carolina on Monday.

Slated for evaluation Tuesday

Higgins (shoulder) will be evaluated Tuesday to determine his status for Thursday's Week 4 matchup against the Jaguars, Adam H. Beasley of the Miami Herald reports.

Analysis: Higgins was held out of Sunday's win over the Steelers due to a shoulder injury, and his status for Week 4 is in question with the Bengals facing a short week. The 22-year-old's status likely will come into focus based on his status in practice this week, but Ja'Marr Chase and Tyler Boyd will continue to lead Cincinnati's receiving corps if Higgins is forced to miss a second straight game.

Officially declared inactive

Higgins (shoulder) is inactive for Sunday's game in Pittsburgh, Marisa Contipelli of the Bengals' official site reports.

Analysis: Higgins was listed as doubtful after managing just one practice - LP on Friday - throughout the week. His absence leaves Ja'Marr Chase and Tyler Boyd as clear leaders of the Cincinnati pass-catching corps, while Mike Thomas and Auden Tate are the lead candidates to absorb Higgins' snaps. The second-year pro will try to make it back for Week 4, but he faces a challenge with Cincinnati hosting Jacksonville in the Thursday game.

Not likely to play

Higgins (shoulder) isn't expected to play Sunday against the Steelers, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Higgins officially is listed as doubtful after a limited practice Friday represented his only participation of the week. Coach Zac Taylor did suggest the Bengals would re-evaluate Higgins over the weekend, but there's no real expectation that he'll have improved enough to play. Ja'Marr Chase and Tyler Boyd will lead the Cincinnati receiving corps this week, backed by Auden Tate and/or Mike Thomas filling in for the injured Higgins.

Officially doubtful for Sunday

Higgins (shoulder) officially is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game at Pittsburgh, Jay Morrison of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Higgins made some progress by following up no activity Wednesday and Thursday with a limited session Friday, but the Bengals don't appear too optimistic about his status for Week 3. During media availability Friday, coach Zac Taylor told Ben Baby of ESPN.com that pain tolerance will be the key for Higgins potentially getting to play Sunday. "We'll try to give him every second we can give him before he tells us one way or the other," Taylor said. As a result, the final decision on Higgins'…read more

Doubtful for Week 3

Higgins (shoulder) is in line to be listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Steelers, Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: With that, it looks like Higgins is trending toward Week 3 inactive status. If he ends up ruled out versus Pittsburgh, added looks would be available for Ja'Marr Chase and Tyler Boyd, while either Auden Tate or Mike Thomas would be in line to log complementary WR snaps in Cincinnati's passing game.

Back at practice Friday

Higgins (shoulder) is suited up for Friday's practice, Ben Baby of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Higgins sat out practice Wednesday and Thursday, so it's a good sign to see him back on the field Friday, even if he's only a limited participant. It remains unclear whether the 22-year-old will be able to avoid an injury designation, but he should have a chance to play Sunday at Pittsburgh.

Misses practice again

Higgins (shoulder) remained sidelined at practice Thursday, Marisa Contipelli of the Bengals' official site reports.

Analysis: Back-to-back DNPs to start the week puts the focus on what, if anything, Higgins is able to do at practice Friday. If he's out or limited this weekend, more WR targets would be freed up for Ja'Marr Chase and Tyler Boyd, while either Auden Tate or Mike Thomas would be candidates to see added complementary snaps in Cincinnati's Week 3 passing game.

Dealing with injury

Higgins missed Wednesday's practice with a shoulder injury, Jay Morrison of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Bengals head coach Zac Taylor didn't elaborate on Higgins' injury earlier Wednesday when he revealed that the wideout would miss practice. There was no sign of Higgins playing through injury based on his Week 2 box-score line, as he caught six of his team-high 10 targets for 60 yards and a touchdown while playing 91 percent of offensive snaps in Sunday's 20-17 loss to the Bears. He'll face the Steelers this weekend if he's healthy enough to play, while either Auden Tate or Mike Thomas will step…read more

Set to miss practice Wednesday

Cincinnati head coach Zac Taylor said that Higgins won't practice Wednesday due to an unspecified injury, Marisa Contipelli of the Bengals' official site reports.

Analysis: The wideout is thus considered day-to-day as Sunday's game against the Steelers approaches. Wednesday's upcoming injury report will reveal what sort of injury Higgins is dealing with, but if he's out or limited this weekend, more targets would be freed up for Ja'Marr Chase and Tyler Boyd.

Sees 10 targets in Week 2

Higgins caught six of his team-high 10 targets for 60 yards and a TD in Sunday's 20-17 loss to the Bears.

Analysis: Meanwhile, Tyler Boyd hauled in seven of his nine targets for 73 yards and rookie Ja'Marr Chase caught two of his four targets for 54 yards and a TD. Higgins -- who logged a 4-58-1 stat line in Week 1 -- figures to remain heavily involved in the Bengals' passing attack once again next weekend, when the team travels to Pittsburgh.

Scores TD, avoids injury

Higgins caught four of five targets for 58 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 27-24 win over the Bengals.

Analysis: Higgins went into the locker room for an IV in the second half but was able to return. He got the Bengals on the board with a two-yard touchdown 1:51 before halftime, but Higgins' touchdown was overshadowed by Ja'Marr Chase's 50-yard score 1:16 later. While the two outside receivers were both much more involved than slot dynamo Tyler Boyd in the season opener, all three members of this trio will be viable fantasy options in Week 2 against the Bears.

Taken off on cart

Higgins was carted off in the second half of Sunday's game against the Vikings, Joe Danneman of FOX19 reports.

Analysis: It's not immediately clear why Higgins was taken off on a cart, but his status will be updated when more details are available.

Inactive for preseason Week 3

Higgins didn't dress for Sunday's 29-26 preseason loss to the Dolphins, Ben Baby of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Higgins was a healthy scratch despite the fact Joe Burrow suited up for his only taste of preseason action, albeit for just one series. The second-year wideout will look to begin the process of building on an impressive rookie season when he and the Bengals face the Vikings in a Week 1 matchup on Sunday, Sept. 12.

Tallies one reception

Higgins recorded one reception on three targets for 11 yards in Friday's preseason game against Washington.

Analysis: Higgins was heavily involved early on in the contest, drawing all three of his targets on the team's first three possessions. He came down with only one of those opportunities, though it was a contested catch over the middle of the field that went for a first down. Higgins is coming off of a 67-reception effort in his rookie campaign, and he should be able to build on that performance even with the team adding Ja'Marr Chase to compete for targets.

Poised for big role

Offensive coordinator Brian Callahan believes that Higgins is going to "play a huge role" in the Bengals offense this season, Jay Morrison of The Athletic reports. "He's got every trait to be a top-level receiver in this league," Callahan said of the 2020 second-rounder.

Analysis: Though plenty of offseason attention has been focused on No. 5 overall pick Ja'Marr Chase, Higgins is poised to maintain a high-profile role in the Bengals offense. He'll pair with Chase on the outside while Tyler Boyd handles slot duties, giving QB Joe Burrow -- who's bouncing back from a torn ACL and MCL -- a strong pass-catching nucleus to work with this coming season. Higgins paced the team with 908 receiving yards last year, but there's room for growth in his game and, according to…read more

Healthy and working out

Higgins is no longer bothered by his hamstring injury from the end of last season, Geoff Hobson of Bengals.com reports.

Analysis: He technically played all 16 games as a rookie, but he was eased into action with 15 snaps Week 1, while the hamstring injury limited him to three snaps in the season finale. Over the 14 games in between, Higgins averaged 4.8 catches for 64.9 yards on 7.6 targets, scoring six TDs and putting up solid efficiency stats (62.6 percent catch rate, 8.5 YPT) despite playing for a four-win team that scored 19.4 points per game (29th). With A.J. Green and his 104 targets from last season now out of the…read more

Finishes with 908 yards

Higgins (hamstring) finished his rookie season with 67 catches for 908 yards and six touchdowns on 108 targets.

Analysis: Higgins played all 16 games, though he took just 15 snaps in Week 1 and three snaps in Week 17. In the eight games he and Joe Burrow both started and finished, Higgins averaged 5.0 catches for 75.4 yards and 0.5 TDs. The young wideout then averaged 4.8 catches for 55.8 yards and 0.4 TDs while playing with backup quarterbacks Weeks 12-16, before injuring his hamstring in the first quarter of the season finale. Higgins should return to health long before Burrow, who will be about 10 months…read more

Exits Sunday's game

Higgins was forced out of Sunday's game against the Ravens with a hamstring injury.

Analysis: Prior to his first-quarter exit from the contest, Higgins did not record a catch, while logging one target. In his absence, Alex Erickson is next up for extra Week 17 snaps.

Good to go Sunday

Higgins (hamstring) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Ravens after practicing fully Friday.

Analysis: The same holds true for Tyler Boyd (concussion), meaning the Bengals will have their top wide receivers available for the season finale. The rookie wideout will look to maintain the chemistry he displayed with quarterback Brandon Allen in Week 16, when he logged six catches on nine targets for 99 yards and a touchdown in Cincinnati's 37-31 win over the Texans.

Should play Sunday

Higgins (hamstring) is expected to be available for Sunday's game against the Ravens, Ben Baby of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: The 21-year-old has been limited at practice this week due to the hamstring issue, but it isn't expected to affect his availability for the season finale. Later Friday, the Bengals will release their final Week 17 injury report, which will reveal whether he carries an injury designation into the contest.

Limited again

Higgins (hamstring) remained limited at practice Thursday, Geoff Hobson of the Bengals' official site reports.

Analysis: What Higgins is able to do at practice Friday should determine whether he approaches Sunday's game against the Ravens with an injury designation or cleared for Week 17 action. The same applies to fellow wide receiver Tyler Boyd (concussion), with Alex Erickson next up for extra snaps if either Higgins or Boyd are out or limited this weekend.

Turns in limited practice

Higgins was a limited participant at practice Wednesday due to a hamstring injury, Ben Baby of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: While logging an 84 percent snap share in the Bengals' Week 16 win over the Texans, Higgins caught six passes on nine targets for 99 yards and a touchdown. With no reported setbacks coming out of that contest, Higgins' limitations Wednesday may just be maintenance-related, given that the wideout previously dealt with a hamstring issue a few weeks ago.

Reemerges against Texans

Higgins recorded six receptions on nine targets for 99 yards and a touchdown in Week 16 against the Texans.

Analysis: Higgins entered the team's Week 16 contest having combined to record 206 receiving yards across his last five games and not eclipsing 60 yards in any of those contests. However, he torched the Texans for a couple big plays of 30 and 22 yards. Higgins also found the end zone for the sixth time this season on an impressive, toe-tapping 20-yard catch midway through the third quarter. He and the Bengals will look to turn in another impressive performance to close the season in Week 17 against the…read more

Trio of catches in win

Higgins secured three of six targets for 31 yards in the Bengals' 27-17 win over the Steelers on Monday night.

Analysis: Ryan Finley threw for just 89 yards overall, so Higgins' modest yardage total has to be kept in context. The rookie actually paced the Bengals in receptions on the night, but he saw a three-game streak of five catches apiece snapped. Higgins hasn't crossed the 56-yard threshold in the four-plus games he's now played without Joe Burrow (knee), but he'll look to capitalize on a weakened Texans secondary in a Week 16 matchup.

Held to 49 yards

Higgins recorded five receptions on eight targets for 49 yards in Week 14 against the Cowboys.

Analysis: Higgins finished second on the team with eight targets, as only Tyler Boyd surpassed him. While he didn't turn that into massive production, Higgins did manage to turn in receptions of 18 and 15 yards. While Higgins has flashed promise throughout his rookie campaign, he has failed to surpass 60 yards in any game since Joe Burrow's (knee) absence. Depending on the health of their secondary, Higgins could face a tough matchup in Week 15 against the Steelers.

Good to go, as expected

Higgins (hamstring) is active for Sunday's game against the Cowboys, Marisa Contipelli of the Bengals' official site reports.

Analysis: The standout rookie receiver tweaked his hamstring during the late stages of last Sunday's loss to Miami, rendering him a limited practice participant throughout this week. Adam Schefter of ESPN reported Saturday that Higgins would likely be able to go against Dallas, and his outlook during pregame workouts has seemingly confirmed that forecast. The 21-year-old has his name in the mix for Offensive Rookie of the Year, having posted 53 receptions for 729 yards and five touchdowns through 12…read more

Likely to play vs. Dallas

Higgins (hamstring), who is listed as questionable, is expected to play Sunday against the Cowboys, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: The rookie second-round pick suffered the hamstring injury during the Week 13 loss to the Dolphins and was limited at practice all week, but it appears he'll be good to go for Sunday's contest. Higgins has caught 10 of 13 targets for 100 yards and one touchdown in the two games since quarterback Joe Burrow (knee) was lost for the season.

Status in question for Sunday

Higgins (hamstring) is questionable for Sunday's game against the Cowboys, Marisa Contipelli of the Bengals' official site reports.

Analysis: Higgins injured his hamstring near the conclusion of the Bengals' Week 13 loss at Miami, resulting in limitations on his practice reps all week. He'll thus enter the weekend with a cloud hanging over his head, but fortunately for fantasy managers Cincinnati's 1:00 p.m. ET kickoff will allow them to pivot to other options if Higgins needs to miss his first game of the season.

Another limited practice

Higgins (hamstring) remained limited at practice Thursday.

Analysis: The fact that Higgins has been able to practice two straight days, albeit in a limited fashion, suggests that he'll be a go Sunday against the Cowboys. Friday's injury report should result in the wideout either being listed as questionable for the contest or free from a Week 14 injury designation altogether.

Limited Wednesday

Higgins (hamstring) was a limited participant at practice Wednesday, Ben Baby of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: The wideout tweaked his hamstring while jumping over a player at the end of the Bengals' Week 13 loss to the Dolphins, but the report notes that Higgins was at least able to take part in individual drills at Wednesday's practice. His status will be revisited again Thursday, when the Bengals' will hold their second practice of the week in advance of Sunday's game versus the Cowboys.

Tweaks hammy late in loss

Higgins secured five of seven targets for 56 yards in the Bengals' 19-7 loss to the Dolphins on Sunday. He also reported having tweaked his hamstring leaping over a defender at the end of the contest, Ben Baby of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: The extent of Higgins' injury remains to be seen, but it otherwise was encouraging to see him put together a serviceable stat line despite playing with a pair of questionable quarterbacks in Brandon Allen (chest) and Ryan Finley against a tough Miami secondary. Higgins ultimately checked in second in receiving yardage to the ejected Tyler Boyd and in catches to tight end Drew Sample, who saw plenty of short-area looks in the latter's absence. The most explosive aspect of Higgins' game -- his…read more

Scores fifth touchdown

Higgins caught all five of his targets for 44 yards and a touchdown during Sunday's 19-17 loss to the Giants.

Analysis: Higgins led the team in receptions and receiving yards while finishing second in targets. He made a one-yard touchdown grab late in the fourth quarter to keep his team in the game, giving him three scores in his last five games and five for the season. Higgins' ability to produce with Brandon Allen at quarterback is a positive sign for his fantasy outlook, but the duo will face a tough challenge next Sunday against a talented Dolphins defense.

Just 26 yards on 10 targets

Higgins caught three of 10 targets for 26 yards in Sunday's 20-9 loss to Washington.

Analysis: Higgins wasn't on the same page with Joe Burrow in the first half, and things only got worse when Ryan Finley took over under center after Burrow was carted off with a season-ending knee injury. Despite finishing only one target shy of Tyler Boyd's team-leading total, Higgins ranked fifth on the team in yards. With the downgrade from Burrow to Finley moving forward, it's possible that the momentum from Higgins' promising rookie season will grind to a screeching halt against the Giants in Week…read more

Cleared for Week 11

Higgins (illness) practiced fully Friday and doesn't have a designation for Sunday's game against Washington, Adam Caplan of SiriusXM NFL Radio reports.

Analysis: Higgins sat out Thursday's session after falling ill, but his ability to take every rep in practice a day later erases any concern about his status heading into the weekend. With no fewer than 60 receiving yards or four receptions in each of his last six outings, Higgins has surpassed A.J. Green as a more valuable fantasy option in the Bengals' passing game.

Returns to practice

Higgins (illness) returned to practice Friday, Ben Baby of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Higgins missed Thursday's session, but his return to the field Friday bodes well for his chances of suiting up Sunday against Washington. Whether he approaches the contest minus a Week 11 injury designation will be revealed later Friday.

Misses practice Thursday

Higgins (illness) didn't practice Thursday, Jay Morrison of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Given that Higgins was a Thursday addition to the Bengals' injury report, as well as the fact that an illness caused his absence makes his status worth monitoring as Sunday's game against Washington approaches. A return to a full session Friday would alleviate any concerns regarding Higgins' Week 11 availability, however. The 2020 second-rounder has seen nine targets in each of his last two outings and is coming off a 7-115-1 effort in the Bengals' Week 10 loss to the Steelers.

Another impressive performance

Higgins recorded seven receptions on nine targets for 115 yards and a touchdown in Week 10 against the Steelers.

Analysis: The rookie continued his impressive season, surpassing 100 yards for the second time in his last four games. He burned the Steelers secondary for a 54-yard reception early in the second quarter. To cap that same drive, Higgins hauled in a two-yard touchdown reception, his fourth of the campaign. The Bengals will face another tough test in Week 11 against a Washington defense that has limited wide receivers for the majority of the season, though Higgins has quickly turned himself into a reliable…read more

Leads team in receiving yards

Higgins caught six of nine targets for 78 yards and carried twice for six yards during Sunday's 31-20 win over the Titans.

Analysis: Higgins led the team in targets and receiving yards while finishing second in receptions. He manged a long gain of 24 yards but was mostly limited to shorter gains as he finished averaging 13.0 yards per catch. Despite his place in a crowded receiving corps, Higgins has been remarkably consistent and has now surpassed 60 receiving yards in five consecutive outings. He will look to keep it up in Week 10 against the Steelers, after the upcoming bye.

Catches third TD in loss

Higgins caught all five of his targets for 71 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 37-34 loss to Cleveland. He also rushed once for seven yards.

Analysis: Higgins was quiet for most of this one but made his mark late, catching a 16-yard touchdown to take a 27-24 lead in the fourth quarter. The rookie second-round pick out of Clemson has 24 catches for 375 yards and three touchdowns in his last five games, as he has quickly become an integral part of Cincinnati's high-octane passing game after taking a couple weeks to get acclimated to the NFL. He'll look to keep rolling in Week 8 against the Titans.

Posts career-best 125 yards

Higgins caught six of eight targets for 125 yards and carried once for two additional yards during Sunday's 31-27 loss to the Colts.

Analysis: Higgins finished second on the team in targets and receptions while finishing with a new career high in receiving yardage thanks in large part to a brilliant 67-yard long gain. He excelled even as A.J. Green and Tyler Boyd received their fair share of targets, which is a positive sign for his fantasy outlook. Higgins seems to be earning more trust with each passing week and will look to take advantage of a favorable matchup against the Browns next Sunday.

Team's top target in Week 5 loss

Higgins hauled in four of eight targets for 62 receiving yards during Sunday's 27-3 loss to Baltimore.

Analysis: The rookie wideout has come on strong following a quiet first two weeks. Higgins managed only three combined receptions for 35 yards against the Chargers and Browns, but he has amassed 13 receptions on 24 targets in three outings since, translating those opportunities into 179 receiving yards and two touchdowns. With A.J. Green (hamstring) having potential to miss time following an early exit against the Ravens, Higgins may see his offensive usage elevate even more.

Racks up 90 scrimmage yards

Higgins caught four of seven targets for 77 yards and added a 13-yard rush in Sunday's 33-25 win over the Jaguars.

Analysis: Higgins also had a ball clank off his hands on what would have been an easy chunk gain, but he still set a new career high in receiving yards for the third consecutive game. The rookie second-rounder posted a goose egg in his debut and had just 35 yards in Week 2, but he broke out with 40 yards and two touchdowns in Week 3 and finished just 13 yards shy of Tyler Boyd's team-leading total against Jacksonville. Higgins will look to keep progressing against the Ravens in Week 5.

Breaks out with pair of TDs

Higgins caught five of his nine targets for 40 receiving yards and two touchdowns during Sunday's 23-23 tie against the Eagles.

Analysis: The No. 33 overall pick from April's draft was practically invisible in his NFL debut, playing 15 offensive snaps against the Chargers but garnering zero targets. His involvement increased drastically in Week 2 at Cleveland, as Higgins jumped to a workload of 60 offensive plays and hauled in three of his six targets for 35 yards. Week 3 marks his breakout and possible arrival as a fantasy stalwart alongside Joe Burrow, as Higgins corralled all three of his red-zone targets Sunday, with two…read more

In line to start

Higgins is expected to start at wide receiver Week 3 against the Eagles, Marisa Contipelli of the Bengals' official site reports.

Analysis: Higgins is seeing his role grow by the week, as he played just 15 snaps Week 1, but saw the field for 60 in Week 2 and received six targets in the passing game. With John Ross set to be a healthy scratch, the opportunity is there for HIggins to continue to expand his role, though he'll presumably still be working behind A.J. Green and Tyler Boyd. It's still a bit of a tough matchup, however, as the Eagles have yet to allow a touchdown to opposing wide receivers through two weeks in 2020 and are…read more

Targeted six times against Browns

Higgins caught three of six targets for 35 yards in Thursday's 35-30 loss to the Browns.

Analysis: After playing just 15 snaps in his NFL debut, Higgins finished with the second most offensive snaps among Bengals wide receivers in Week 2 behind only Tyler Boyd. It appears he has usurped John Ross as the team's No. 3 wideout, so Higgins should be on fantasy radars heading into Week 3 against the Eagles.

No catches in NFL debut

Higgins was not targeted during Sunday's 16-13 loss to the Chargers.

Analysis: Though the rookie second-rounder was largely uninvolved in the passing game during his regular-season debut, he did garner 15 offensive snaps for the afternoon. It's evident the Bengals have plans to deploy Higgins as part of the offense -- not only based the fact that he was the No. 33 overall pick in April's draft, but also because he fielded zero special-teams snaps against Los Angeles. With a strong trio of veteran receivers on the depth chart in front of him in A.J. Green, Tyler Boyd, and…read more

Returns from hamstring injury

Higgins (hamstring) made a couple highly difficult catches during Monday's practice, Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Sidelined by a hamstring injury through most of training camp, Higgins returned to practice over the weekend and reportedly looked good Monday. A.J. Green remains absent while nursing a hamstring injury of his own, but there's plenty of competition for first-team reps alongside Tyler Boyd, with Higgins joined by John Ross and Auden Tate. It still isn't clear if the 33rd overall pick from the 2020 NFL Draft will have a regular spot in three-wide formations Week 1.

Held out of team drills

Higgins (hamstring) appears to be limited to individual drills at Tuesday's practice, Geoff Hobson of the Bengals' official site reports.

Analysis: With Higgins and A.J. Green both nursing hamstring injuries and John Ross on the reserve/COVID-19 list, the Bengals could have Auden Tate and Alex Erickson running with Tyler Boyd as the starting wideouts for Joe Burrow's first padded NFL practice. The team used that same trio for much of last season, but the hope for 2020 is that the Bengals will have at least two out of Green, Higgins and Ross healthy at any given time. The rookie second-round pick figures to enter Week 1 somewhere between…read more