Can the Bengals keep their star trio Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins together?

As the Cincinnati Bengals prepare for a high-stakes matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers, the future of their star offensive trio—Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins—hangs in the balance. With Tee Higgins set to enter free agency and Ja’Marr Chase nearing the end of his rookie contract, this game could mark the last time these three play together in Cincinnati. Here’s a closer look at the situation, their shared goals, and what the future holds.

Joe Burrow Advocates for Tee Higgins’ Return

In a rare public statement, Joe Burrow made it clear that the Bengals should prioritize retaining wide receiver Tee Higgins. “You don’t want to make a living out of letting great players leave the building,” Burrow stated. His message, aimed at the team’s front office, reflects the urgency of the situation as Higgins approaches free agency.

Tee Higgins, who was franchise-tagged last offseason, has proven his value throughout the year. Heading into tonight’s game, he’s just five catches away from a career high and has delivered in key moments, including last week’s back-to-back clutch plays that helped secure a win against the Broncos. However, with players like Brandon Aiyuk signing lucrative contracts, Higgins is expected to command a significant deal.

For the Bengals, keeping Higgins isn’t just about talent—it’s about maintaining the chemistry that drives their offense. As Burrow continues to develop as one of the league’s top quarterbacks, having reliable targets like Higgins and Chase is critical to sustaining success.

A Shared Vision: Staying Together in Cincinnati

Privately, Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins have expressed a strong desire to remain teammates for years to come. This shared vision highlights their belief in the team’s potential to compete at the highest level.

Ja’Marr Chase has one year remaining on his rookie deal, and while the team attempted to negotiate a long-term extension before the season, no agreement was reached. Higgins, on the other hand, faces immediate uncertainty. After requesting a trade last offseason and receiving the franchise tag, Higgins has yet to agree to a long-term deal with the Bengals.

Despite these challenges, Higgins remains optimistic about staying in Cincinnati. “I grew a love for this city for sure,” Higgins told reporters. “And I grew a love for this team and these coaches; yeah, I’m not ruling it out.”

For the Bengals, the challenge lies in managing contracts for three marquee players while maintaining a competitive roster. With Joe Burrow already locked into a record-setting deal, the front office will need to make strategic moves to keep the core intact.

The Steelers Game: A Defining Moment

Tonight’s game against the Pittsburgh Steelers is a must-win for the Bengals, not just to keep their slim playoff hopes alive but to showcase the value of their star trio. Even with a win, the Bengals will need the Broncos and Dolphins to lose to secure a postseason berth, making this game a critical juncture in their season.

For Tee Higgins, this game is another chance to prove his worth. His ability to step up in high-pressure moments, as seen in last week’s win, underscores his importance to the team’s success. Meanwhile, Ja’Marr Chase continues to solidify his reputation as one of the NFL’s elite receivers, making it clear why retaining both players is vital for the team’s future.

The outcome of this game could also influence the Bengals’ offseason decisions. A strong performance by the trio might strengthen the case for keeping them together, while a loss could accelerate roster changes.

Can the Bengals Keep Their Stars Together?

The Bengals face a pivotal moment in their franchise history. With Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins forming one of the NFL’s most dynamic offensive trios, their potential for long-term success is undeniable. However, financial challenges and contract negotiations threaten to disrupt this core.

While Joe Burrow’s public advocacy for Higgins highlights the importance of retaining their talent, the front office will need to navigate a complex salary cap landscape to make it happen. Higgins’ openness to staying and the trio’s shared vision offer hope, but the clock is ticking.

Tonight’s game against the Steelers could mark the end of an era—or the start of a renewed commitment to keeping the band together. Regardless of the outcome, the Bengals must act decisively to preserve their core and continue building toward sustained success.