When it comes to running an NFL franchise like a well-oiled machine, no one does it better than the Philadelphia Eagles. The recent blockbuster deals between the Cincinnati Bengals and their star wide receivers, Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, highlight just how brilliant Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie has been in managing his team’s roster and salary cap. While the Bengals went all-in on their offensive core, the Eagles played their cards wisely, securing their own top-tier wideouts at a fraction of the cost.
The Bengals’ Big Money Moves
Cincinnati made a bold move by locking up both Chase and Higgins with historic contracts. According to Jordan Schultz of Fox Sports, the Bengals reached agreements totaling a massive eight years and $276 million for the duo. Chase alone inked a four-year deal worth $161 million, with a staggering $112 million guaranteed, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. Higgins wasn’t far behind, landing a four-year, $115 million contract, securing his spot as the highest-paid WR2 in league history.
Joe Burrow, the Bengals' franchise quarterback, made it clear that he wanted his top targets locked in for the long haul. Owner Mike Brown delivered, ensuring Cincinnati’s core offensive group remains intact for years. Chase, fresh off an incredible season where he led the league in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdown catches, proved he’s worth every penny. The 26-year-old Higgins, despite missing some time due to injury, still put up solid numbers with 911 yards and 10 touchdowns in just 12 games. The Bengals made a statement—but was it the right financial move?
How the Eagles Played It Smart
While the Bengals were handing out record-breaking contracts, the Eagles quietly secured their own elite receivers for much less. A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith both signed contract extensions at the right time, saving Philadelphia millions in the long run. Brown, who initially signed a four-year, $100 million extension after his trade from the Titans, later agreed to a three-year, $92 million extension in 2024, with $84 million in guarantees. Smith followed suit with a three-year, $75 million deal, including nearly $70 million in guarantees and a $20.351 million signing bonus. By locking up their stars early, the Eagles ensured stability without overpaying.
The $100 Million Mistake the Bengals Made
Timing is everything in the NFL, especially when it comes to contracts. As former Eagles executive Joe Banner and others have pointed out, Philadelphia’s proactive approach to negotiations saved the franchise roughly $100 million compared to what the Bengals just spent. Instead of waiting for market prices to skyrocket, the Eagles front office acted swiftly, keeping their top receivers among the league’s highest-paid but without completely crippling their salary cap.
In fact, before Cincinnati made their deals, Philadelphia’s wide receiver duo ranked among the top two in combined salary. Now, with the Bengals' big spending spree, the Eagles’ tandem of Brown and Smith has dropped to third in total WR salary commitment.
The Highest-Paid Wide Receivers in the NFL
Let’s break down where things stand after these mega deals:
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Ja'Marr Chase – Highest-paid WR in NFL history ($161M/4 years, $112M guaranteed)
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Tee Higgins – Highest-paid WR2 in history ($115M/4 years, first two years fully guaranteed)
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A.J. Brown – Still holding strong as the fourth highest-paid WR
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DeVonta Smith – Ranks tenth, earning $25M per season
Eagles Keep Winning Off the Field
This is what separates great franchises from good ones. While the Bengals may have secured their stars, they might have cost themselves valuable cap flexibility in the process. The Eagles, on the other hand, have shown yet again why they are among the best-run organizations in the NFL. By making smart financial decisions and extending players at the right time, they remain competitive without breaking the bank.
When you look at the big picture, the Bengals may have won the battle in terms of securing their players, but the Eagles are winning the war in overall roster management. This is why Philadelphia continues to be a model franchise for the rest of the league to follow.
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