Over the weekend, the Cincinnati Bengals made a bold move that turned heads across the NFL. Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, two of the league’s top wide receivers, secured historic contract extensions, breaking the Bengals' long-standing tradition of fiscal conservatism. 

Both deals, which include multiyear guarantees—a notable rarity for Cincinnati—are a significant departure from the team’s usual approach, and they may have major implications for the NFL's future contract negotiations. As Fox Sports’ NFL insider Jordan Schultz put it, “[I]t was a negotiating masterclass by agent Rocky Arceneaux, who represents both players.”

In the past, package deals like this have been more common in the NBA, à la Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, where superstar teammates often negotiate together to maximize leverage. But this type of strategy has rarely been seen in the NFL. Chase and Higgins’ decision to secure their contracts together could set a new precedent for how top-tier talent negotiates in the future.

“...[The guaranteed money] was important for both of them. But again, you know, kudos to the Bengals for seeing it and breaking their precedent,” Arceneaux told the Cincinnati Inquirer. “I'm sure that was tough.” 

“And, you know, I'm sure every player from now on is going to want this.”

Arceneaux’s ability to secure these landmark deals demonstrates the growing influence of Black agents in a traditionally white-dominated space, underscoring how strategic, high-level negotiations can change the dynamics of NFL contract talks.

Chase’s extension, which includes guarantees extending into his fourth year, makes him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. Higgins, considered by many as the NFL’s top No. 2 receiver, now holds the record for the richest deal ever for a player in that role. 

The Bengals, typically hesitant to make such moves, ultimately relented, and the result can prove to be a groundbreaking shift in how star players can work together to lock deals that reflect their value. The impact of this decision will be felt throughout the league for years to come, on the field and in the negotiating rooms.