Despite their current record, the Cincinnati Bengals are still confident and focused on keeping their playoff hopes alive. However, they received some disappointing news when wide receiver Tee Higgins was listed as questionable for their critical Week 17 matchup against the Denver Broncos due to ankle and knee injuries, as reported by Tom Pelissero on X.
For the Bengals, this game is a must-win if they hope to make the playoffs. Not only do they need to secure a victory against the Broncos, but they also require Denver to lose their remaining games, including a showdown with the Kansas City Chiefs, who are expected to rest their starters in the final week of the season.
Higgins’ absence would certainly be a blow for the Bengals’ offense, as he has been an integral part of their receiving corps this season. His injuries, affecting both his knee and ankle, have lingered for some time. Last week, Higgins played through the same issues, and head coach Zac Taylor described it as “management mode” for the team as they navigate various injuries. Higgins has had a challenging season in terms of health, having only started in seven games. Nonetheless, when on the field, he has been productive, recording 58 receptions for 727 yards and seven touchdowns, which ties his career high.
Bengals head coach Zac Taylor has emphasized the challenge his team will face with key players like Higgins and star receiver Ja’Marr Chase. Denver head coach Sean Payton also acknowledged the threat posed by Higgins and the rest of the Bengals’ receiving corps, including running back Joe Mixon. Payton noted that the Bengals have hit their stride recently, and the Broncos will need to play one of their best games to contain them.
In particular, Higgins could play a crucial role in this matchup, especially considering the attention that will likely be given to Ja’Marr Chase. Broncos cornerback Patrick Surtain II famously limited Chase to just one catch for three yards the last time they faced off in 2021, so this might create an opportunity for Higgins to see more targets. As a result, the outcome of this game could heavily depend on Higgins’ ability to contribute despite his injuries.
