Tee Higgins injury update: Is Bengals WR playing in week 16 against the Dolphins?

Over the last few weeks, Tee Higgins has been among the biggest missing pieces for the Cincinnati Bengals. Fans are anxiously watching the receiver's condition before to Week 16 of the 2025 NFL season; he has been out of the starting lineup in two of the last three games.With the Bengals still pushing to finish the season strong, Higgins’ health has become a major talking point.

The concern is real. Tee Higgins has suffered two concussions in a short span, which has slowed his return. While there has been some progress, the team is moving carefully. Head coach Zac Taylor and the medical staff are focused on player safety as the week begins.

Tee Higgins concussion status ahead of Week 16 against upcoming opponent

Tee Higgins first entered the NFL concussion protocol after a head injury in Week 12. That injury forced him to miss the Week 13 game.

Just when it looked like he was close to returning, Higgins suffered another concussion in Week 14. As a result, he was ruled out again and did not play in Sunday’s game.

On Monday, head coach Zac Taylor confirmed that Tee Higgins was still in the concussion protocol. Taylor said this was expected since Higgins had not cleared all the required steps last week.

The Bengals are taking a cautious approach due to the short gap between the two injuries.

There was some positive movement last week. Tee Higgins managed to take part in two limited practices. That showed improvement, but it was not enough for full clearance.



For Higgins to return, he must log a full practice session and then be evaluated by an independent neurologist. Only after that final check can he be approved to play.

The Cincinnati Bengals will release their first official injury report on Wednesday. If Tee Higgins remains limited, his status likely stays day to day. A full practice would be a strong sign he could suit up on Sunday.

Tee Higgins is an important part of the Cincinnati Bengals offense, but the team is aware of the risks involved. Two concussions in such a short time raise serious concerns. That is why the Bengals are not rushing his return, even with a crucial Week 16 game coming up.

The Cincinnati Bengals still have several days before kickoff, which gives Tee Higgins time to progress. However, the decision will depend fully on medical clearance, not game importance. Zac Taylor has repeated all season that player health comes first.

As of now, Tee Higgins’ status remains uncertain. His availability will likely come down to how his body responds in practice later this week.

Also read: Is Christian Watson Playing In Week 16 Vs The Bears? Latest Packers Injury Update And Performance Details