The Cincinnati Bengals are gearing up for training camp, but they’ll be without one of the top talents in the league when the veterans report. Defensive end Trey Hendrickson, a four-time Pro Bowl selection and the NFL’s sack leader last season, will not be joining his teammates as he seeks a new long-term contract. This news comes just a day before the Bengals’ training camp kicks off in downtown Cincinnati.
Hendrickson has been absent from all team activities since the close of the last season, where he racked up an impressive 17.5 sacks and earned All-Pro honors. His absence speaks volumes about the urgency of his contract situation, as he enters the final year of his current deal. Reports indicate that a significant sticking point is the Bengals’ unwillingness to provide guaranteed money beyond the first year—something that has been a hallmark in their negotiations, particularly with non-quarterbacks.
What makes this situation even more intriguing is the changing tide in Cincinnati’s approach to player contracts. Previously, the Bengals were one of the few teams in the NFL reluctant to extend guaranteed contracts beyond the first year for players other than quarterbacks. However, they made a notable exception with All-Pro receiver Ja’Marr Chase when he signed a $161 million extension that includes at least $32.7 million guaranteed.
In a media appearance earlier this offseason, Hendrickson made it clear that he does not intend to play out the final year of his contract, which would bring him $16 million. Bengals team president Mike Brown noted Hendrickson’s history as a tough negotiator, emphasizing that while negotiations may not be easy, he believes they usually reach a satisfactory conclusion.
“We like Trey as a person,” Brown stated, “but he pushes hard and gets emotional during these discussions. It’s consistent; it always gets done, and I anticipate that we will resolve this as well.”
Head coach Zac Taylor provided context to the situation, highlighting the differences between Hendrickson and rookie defensive end Shemar Stewart, who is also absent for contract reasons. Taylor expressed confidence in Hendrickson’s ability to contribute significantly, even if he misses some time at camp.
“Any time missed is pretty critical for rookies who haven’t established themselves yet, but with Trey, I know what to expect from him when he shows up,” Taylor said.
Age is also a factor in Hendrickson’s negotiations. At 31, he’s in a demographic where the Bengals have historically been cautious about making investments, yet he shares a similar age with elite defensive players like T.J. Watt and Danielle Hunter, who both received extensions this offseason.
Bengals director of player personnel Duke Tobin acknowledged the complexities of investing in older players while still expressing deep respect for Hendrickson’s contributions to the team. “He’s a fantastic player and has been a great signing for us,” Tobin remarked. “If we can come to an agreement that allows him to get a raise and an extension, that’d be ideal.”
With new defensive coordinator Al Golden on board, the Bengals are looking to improve after finishing 26th in points allowed per drive last season. Golden, who has a history of working with Hendrickson, is eager to have the defensive standout back in the mix.
“It’s tough for us as coaches,” Golden explained. “We support the relationship between management and the player. Ultimately, we hope for a quick resolution, as we have a job to do each day.”
As the Bengals prepare for the upcoming season, Hendrickson’s contract situation remains a focal point. The franchise will need to navigate these negotiations carefully, as they aim to keep one of their most impactful players in a Bengals uniform.
