Report: Higgins wanted similar deal to Colts' Pittman

Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins initially aimed for a deal similar to the three-year, $70-million extension Indianapolis Colts wideout Michael Pittman Jr. received, Kelsey Conway of the Cincinnati Enquirer reports.

However, the Bengals did not approach the $20-million range in contract negotiations, which led to talks faltering, Conway adds.

Cincinnati franchise tagged Higgins earlier this offseason, but the wideout reportedly later requested a trade. Higgins is slated to make $21.8 million guaranteed on the franchise tag.

Higgins said earlier in April that he anticipates playing the 2024 season in Cincinnati.

The 25-year-old has been a prominent member of the Bengals' passing attack since entering the league in 2020. He racked up back-to-back 1,000-plus-yard campaigns in 2021 and 2022 before recording a career-low 656 receiving yards across 12 games last season.

Tagged players have until July 15 to sign long-term extensions.