Tee Higgins has played a vital role in helping the Cincinnati Bengals maintain their winning streak, keeping them in the chase for the playoffs.

On Saturday, however, the Bengals had to secure their 19-17 victory without the wide receiver, who sustained an ankle injury during the third quarter. The fifth-year player, who will be a free agent at the end of the season, recorded four receptions for 53 yards during the match.

The Bengals still rely on the Denver Broncos and Miami Dolphins to lose their games on Sunday to achieve their unlikely playoff aspirations. If Cincinnati qualifies for the playoffs, Higgins has expressed his determination to play through the high-ankle sprain he is currently dealing with.

“I have no choice,” Higgins stated, as reported by NFL Network’s Bridget Condon. “I have to.”

This season, Higgins missed the first two games due to a hamstring injury and was sidelined for three additional games because of a quad issue.

Since his return from injury in the last five games, Higgins has achieved 40 receptions for 517 yards and seven touchdowns, including three touchdowns last Saturday against the Denver Broncos.