Andrei Iosivas' lofty goal is just what the Cincinnati Bengals may eventually need from him

Tee Higgins' future with the Cincinnati Bengals continues to be a topic of discussion.

Higgins is slated to play the 2024 season in the Queen City, but beyond that is very much up in the air.

The plan for second-year receiver Andrei Iosivas simple: position himself to take Higgins' place when the time comes.

Despite being a sixth-round pick from last year's NFL Draft, Iosivas enters this season with notable expectations. Hauling in four touchdown passes on just targets as a rookie can lead to that.

But succeeding in a limited role is far different than replacing one of the game's best. That's what this summer is all about for Iosivas.

"I'm hoping I can get the confidence from the coaches," Iosivas told ESPN's Ben Baby. "I'm not sure if they can pay Tee. He'll probably get a lot of money. He's a really good receiver. Hopefully I can step into that role."

Probably is a bit of an understatement. Higgins is already scheduled to take home $21.86 million this year. He'll earn an additional $26.1792 million next year if the Bengals decide he's worth another franchise tag.

He'll make a lot more than that if he hits free agency. That's where Iosivas could come in.

Two years of learning the system and earning trust from quarterback Joe Burrow should boost Iosivas to the top of the line when the Bengals decide how to replace Higgins. Both of those matter a lot more than where in his draft he was selected. Him also being an elite athlete for his size helps a great deal. Remember, the guy was a track star in college.

Iosivas' athleticism was put to solid use in 2023, and even more of it should be unlocked for the coming season. Another year of growth will make the Bengals think long and hard how to go forward at the receiver position. 

Iosivas will be at the front of their minds when that goes down.