The Cincinnati Bengals aren’t trading star wide receiver Tee Higgins.

This is well understood by fans; however, it does not prevent his name from surfacing in trade discussions as the NFL trade deadline approaches in November.

For instance, Higgins was mentioned by Dianna Russini of The Athletic in the context of potential replacements for the injured Rashee Rice on the Kansas City Chiefs:

The pressing question is whether the Chiefs will take another risk in their pursuit of a third consecutive championship. Here are some players I am monitoring ahead of the NFL trade deadline:

• Amari Cooper, Browns  

• Tee Higgins, Bengals  

• George Pickens, Steelers  

• Christian Kirk, Jaguars  

• DeAndre Hopkins, Titans  

It is important to note that the Bengals are particularly unlikely to trade Higgins to a team like the Chiefs.

Nevertheless, Higgins' name will continue to circulate due to his current status playing under the franchise tag, which suggests he may depart via free agency in the upcoming offseason.

The Bengals have a history of retaining their players, especially their top talents, even if the potential return for Higgins could be substantial.

Additionally, any external trade considerations for Higgins are further complicated by the slim possibility that the Bengals and Higgins could negotiate a long-term contract extension.

While this outcome seems improbable given the ongoing situation with Ja'Marr Chase's contract and other factors, NFL teams have previously navigated complex cap situations. The Bengals are also aware that their offensive performance has significantly improved since Higgins returned from his hamstring injury in the last two games.

Despite being under the franchise tag, Higgins has been a vital contributor throughout training camp and remains essential to the team's success. Even if the Bengals were struggling with a 0-4 record, a trade appears highly unlikely.