The Cincinnati Bengals are reportedly willing to explore trade options for star defensive end Trey Hendrickson, signaling a shift after months of stalled contract negotiations.
With both sides seemingly unwilling to budge, the team appears ready to consider outside offers rather than risk a prolonged impasse.
Long-Standing Negotiation Deadlock
Hendrickson, a four-time Pro Bowl selection, and the Bengals have been engaged in talks over a long-term extension for several months.
Despite the defensive end publicly expressing his desire to stay in Cincinnati, the sides have struggled to reach common ground.
NFL Network insiders suggest that any potential trade for Hendrickson would come at a high price, likely involving a young player and a future draft pick.
Offseason Tensions and Training Camp Holdout
The contract saga intensified during the offseason, with Hendrickson initially skipping the early days of training camp to press for a new deal.
By the end of July, he returned as a “good-faith gesture,” signaling a willingness to continue negotiations, though no agreement has yet been reached.
Salary Cap Challenges Complicate Extension
The Bengals’ salary cap situation further complicates matters.
Quarterback Joe Burrow’s top targets, Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, recently signed massive extensions totaling $276 million.
While their combined cap hit is manageable now, it will rise above 20 percent by 2028, making a long-term deal for Hendrickson trickier for the team to accommodate.
Hendrickson’s Value and Contract Status
Hendrickson, who is set to earn $16 million this season, signed a 2023 extension keeping him in Cincinnati through 2025.
His base salary this year is $15.8 million, with a cap hit of $18.6 million.
Despite prior permission to explore a trade before the NFL draft, discussions quickly fizzled, leaving Hendrickson and the Bengals back at the negotiating table.
Stellar On-Field Performance
Even amid contract uncertainty, Hendrickson has continued to perform at an elite level.
The Florida Atlantic product notched 18 sacks in each of the past two seasons, underscoring his value to Cincinnati’s defense.
Defensive Line Adjustments
The Bengals are looking to strengthen their defensive front after the retirement of Sam Hubbard, a beloved Cincinnati native and former defensive end.
The team also recently resolved a holdout with first-round pick Shemar Stewart, who signed his rookie contract and joined training camp after a brief standoff with management.
Looking Ahead
As the Bengals navigate these contract and roster challenges, all eyes remain on Hendrickson.
Whether he stays in Cincinnati or moves on, his impact on the field has been undeniable, and the team will need to carefully weigh their next steps in balancing talent, finances, and team chemistry.
