Hendrickson’s Contract Standoff: Will Bengals Star Miss games?

CINCINNATI — Despite resolving contract issues with wide receivers Ja’arrr chase and Tee Higgins, the Bengals face an unresolved contract situation with star defensive end Trey Hendrickson as they gear up for the season.

Hendrickson, the NFL’s sack leader in 2024, has been absent from voluntary workouts, seeking a new contract after a stellar season that included 17.5 sacks, All-Pro honors, and his fourth consecutive Pro Bowl selection.

Bengals reporter Ben Baby and National reporter Jeremy Fowler delve into the key questions surrounding Hendrickson’s situation as the offseason program progresses towards mandatory minicamp on June 10.

The Backstory

Hendrickson’s contract situation has been a recurring issue for three years. In 2023, he signed a one-year extension with an $8 million signing bonus. A year later, his request for a long-term deal was turned down, leading to an unsuccessful trade request.

This offseason, Hendrickson again sought a trade, which the team granted, allowing him to explore the market before free agency and the NFL draft.

According to a source, several teams initially expressed interest in acquiring Hendrickson via trade and signing him to a long-term contract. However, no deal materialized, prolonging negotiations.– Baby

League Insights

Manny teams acknowledge the Bengals’ difficult position,given Hendrickson’s market value. Pass rushers like Myles Garrett, Danielle Hunter, Maxx Crosby and Nick bosa earn over $34 million annually, suggesting Hendrickson should be in that range.

Hendrickson seeks both market value and long-term security, making a short-term deal unlikely.

Some believe the Bengals will find a way to retain him.

“I can’t see how they can let a great player go for a draft pick, given the pressure to win now,” an NFC executive said. Trade talks have diminished, suggesting the Bengals either didn’t recieve a first-round pick offer or declined trade offers in March. The situation appears to be heading towards a contract extension or a breakdown.

“I still think they can come to a compromise, getting him above that $30-million threshold while covering themselves,” another NFC executive said. “the age [30] is something that must be a factor for them.”

If no agreement is reached,some believe Hendrickson might miss games or the entire season. “He’s extremely dug in,” a source said. — Fowler

Market Impact

Recent deals have intensified the situation.The rising contract values for edge rushers were unforeseen when the two sides discussed a new deal in 2024.

Garrett’s record-breaking $40 million annual deal with the Cleveland Browns and