Much has gone into this dramatic shift in Higgins’ future outlook with the Bengals over the last few weeks. His dramatic role in the season-saving win over the Denver Broncos in Week 17, highlighted by 11 catches for 131 yards and three scores and the game-winning catch in overtime, only intensified this idea.

Higgins hauled in 131 yards and three touchdowns against Denver’s vaunted defense, including the overtime score. Even though he’s missed time this season due to injury, Higgins has put more than enough great play on tape this season to justify paying him like one of the best wide receivers in the NFL.

The receiver's three-touchdown heroics kept the team's playoff hopes alive, but an uncertain future for him in Cincinnati continues to loom.