Elijah Higgins signed a three-year contract extension with the Arizona Cardinals, tying the tight end to the franchise through the 2029 NFL season.
The deal could reach up to $26,8 million including bonuses, according to reports from several American media outlets. The club did not disclose the financial terms of the agreement.
Higgins plays behind Trey McBride, a two-time Pro Bowler and one of the best tight ends in the league. Despite working primarily in a secondary role, Higgins started five of his first nine games this season, recording 18 receptions for 162 yards and one touchdown.
“He has proven indispensable in that role,” the team noted regarding the frequent use of two tight end sets in the Arizona offense.
The Miami Dolphins selected Higgins in the sixth round of the 2023 NFL draft out of Stanford University. After Miami waived him, the Cardinals claimed the tight end off waivers.
Over 54 career NFL games, including 23 starts, Higgins has totaled 82 receptions for 798 yards and four touchdowns.
The extension secures a reliable rotational piece at a controlled cost as the market value for starting tight ends continues to rise. The move also provides depth behind McBride for the Cardinals offense.
The contract agreement follows a busy stretch for the Arizona roster that included the departure of quarterback Jacoby Brissett. After being demoted in early November, Brissett signed with the Baltimore Ravens to serve as the backup to Lamar Jackson.
The Cardinals look toward upcoming games with stability at the tight end position as the season progresses toward the final stretch.
