Chad Johnson Feels Tee Higgins, Bengals Will Work It Out amid Contract, Trade Rumors

Chad Johnson is not worried about the contract impasse between Tee Higgins and the Cincinnati Bengals.

The former Bengals star spoke to TMZ and said he's confident the two sides will reach a deal after talking to Higgins.

"I think we're going to work it out. We'll figure it out. ... It's business—it's the nature of the business. He's going to be all right, though," Johnson said.

The Bengals used their franchise tag on Higgins in March, and there has seemingly been no progress on a long-term contract. Kelsey Conway of the Cincinnati Enquirer reported Cincinnati's initial offer to Higgins did not even top $20 million per season.

Higgins is slated to $21.8 million in 2024 on the franchise tag. There are currently 18 receivers who make at least $20 million per season, and Higgins almost certainly wants to become the 19th.

Higgins said he does expect to play for the Bengals this season even if there is no new contract.

"I do anticipate it," Higgins told WLWT last month. "I've grown a love for Cincy that I didn't think I would, but, you know, man, looking forward to it."

Higgins recorded career lows in receptions (42), receiving yards (656) and receiving touchdowns (5) while being limited to 12 games due to injury last season.