Cincinnati Bengals’ defensive end Trey Hendrickson topped the NFL in sacks last year with 17.5. As he heads into the final year of his contract with the team, he has been allowed to explore a trade this offseason. Prior to the draft, negotiations for an extension between Hendrickson and the Bengals appeared to hit a roadblock. While the Bengals recently secured significant contract extensions for wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, Hendrickson’s situation has not seen progress.
In a statement to ESPN, Hendrickson expressed frustration over the lack of communication since the NFL Draft concluded on April 26. He noted that the offers presented before the draft did not align with the mutual vision discussed in previous offseasons. Despite his desire for a resolution, no talks have taken place, leading to a standstill in negotiations.
Contrary to earlier reports of ongoing discussions, recent statements by Hendrickson suggest otherwise. The Bengals’ decision to select edge rusher Shemar Stewart in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft has raised speculation about Hendrickson’s future with the team.
Hendrickson, a Pro Bowl selection in each of his four seasons with the Bengals, has been a standout performer, earning first-team All-Pro honors and finishing as the runner-up in Defensive Player of the Year voting last season. Since joining the Bengals in 2021, he ranks among the league leaders in sacks, trailing only Myles Garrett and T.J. Watt.
As talks with the Bengals remain at a standstill, the future of Trey Hendrickson’s tenure in Cincinnati hangs in the balance, with uncertainties surrounding his contract negotiations.
