Elijah Higgins is an American professional football player, currently serving as a tight end for the Arizona Cardinals in the National Football League (NFL). Born on October 27, 2000, in Tampa, Florida, Higgins grew up in a family deeply rooted in athleticism and competitive spirit. He spent his high school years at Bowie High School in Austin, Texas, where his talent on the football field earned him a spot in the prestigious Under Armour All-America Game during his senior year. Rated as a four-star recruit, Higgins committed to Stanford University, where he played college football as a wide receiver before transitioning to tight end in the NFL.
Siblings
Elijah is the eldest of three siblings, with a younger brother, Kaleb, and a younger sister, Bailey. Both Kaleb and Bailey have inherited the familyâs athletic prowess, carving their own paths in sports. Kaleb Higgins followed a similar trajectory to his older brother, pursuing football and playing as a reserve safety for Cal State. The Higgins family fostered a competitive yet supportive environment, often pitting Elijah and Kaleb against each other in friendly rivalries, including football matchups and even ping-pong games, with their home featuring a ping-pong table split between Stanford and Cal State decor to reflect the brothersâ respective teams.
Their father, George, once remarked, âElijah and Kaleb on the 3-yard line with no time on the clock. I donât lose in that scenario,â highlighting the spirited competition between the two. Bailey Higgins, the youngest, is a standout volleyball player and a Division I prospect, showcasing the same athletic talent that runs through the family. Their mother, Karon, a former basketball player for the Puerto Rican national team, has been a constant source of encouragement, frequently attending games to support her childrenâs athletic endeavors.
Career
Higginsâ football career began to take shape at Stanford University, where he played as a wide receiver for the Cardinal. As a freshman, he appeared in all 12 games, primarily contributing on special teams. During the COVID-19-shortened 2020 season, he recorded 15 receptions for 176 yards. His junior year saw him lead the team with 45 receptions for 500 yards and four touchdowns, and as a senior, he amassed 59 catches for 704 yards and two touchdowns. His impressive college performance led to his selection by the Miami Dolphins in the sixth round, 197th overall, of the 2023 NFL Draft.
Initially drafted with the intention of converting him to a tight end, Higgins was waived by the Dolphins but quickly claimed by the Arizona Cardinals in August 2023. In his rookie season, he played in 11 games, starting two, and recorded 14 receptions for 163 yards and one touchdown. In 2024, as the Cardinalsâ second-string tight end behind Trey McBride, Higgins played in 17 games, starting six, with 20 receptions for 172 yards and two touchdowns. He also showcased versatility by occasionally playing fullback, logging 35 snaps in that role. Despite competing for snaps in an offense dominated by McBride, Higgins has shown promise as a dynamic tight end with the potential to grow in Arizonaâs system.
Accolades
Higginsâ career, while still in its early stages, has been marked by notable achievements. In high school, he earned first-team all-district honors as a wide receiver in both his sophomore and junior years, solidifying his reputation as a top prospect. His selection to the Under Armour All-America Game underscored his status as a four-star recruit. At Stanford, Higgins emerged as a team leader, topping the Cardinal in receptions during his junior season and delivering a standout senior year with 704 receiving yards.
In the NFL, his transition from wide receiver to tight end has been recognized for its potential, with NFL analyst Lance Zierlein noting Higginsâ ânecessary tools to become a dynamic F tight endâ capable of working all three levels of the field. His contributions in the 2024 season, including two touchdown receptions, highlight his growing role in the Cardinalsâ offense, even as he navigates a competitive depth chart.