Bengals Consider Trade Options as Trey Hendrickson Negotiations Stall

CINCINNATI, Ohio — The Cincinnati Bengals are experiencing significant tension in contract negotiations with defensive end Trey Hendrickson, potentially opening the door to a trade. According to The 33rd Team’s Ari Meirov, discussions regarding a contract extension are currently ‘far apart.’

Hendrickson is under contract for one more year, set to earn $16 million in 2025, but has expressed a desire for a new deal in the range of $32 to $33 million annually. Meirov noted the situation on the Check The Mic podcast, stating, ‘A couple of weeks ago, I would have said there’s no chance he gets traded. I think the possibility is out there, like if they’re able to get a crazy, crazy offer for him, I think they’d be willing to listen.’

Bengals Director of Player Personnel Duke Tobin reiterated the team’s preference to retain Hendrickson, saying, ‘Our preference with Trey is to have him on our football team… he’s under contract. We’re looking to pay him for what we believe will be really good future years.’

With impending contracts for wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins looming, the Bengals are in a challenging position. According to Meirov, negotiations for Chase are in the $36 to $37 million range, while Higgins is tagged at approximately $26.179 million. Both players are critical to the team’s future and signing them could impact Cincinnati’s salary cap space heading into free agency.

‘Finding a way to get those contracts in place before free agency would give the Bengals more cap space to work with to sign outside talent,’ Meirov added.

In light of recent market changes, including defensive end Maxx Crosby‘s new contract worth $106.5 million over three years with $91.5 million guaranteed, Hendrickson is aware of the financial landscape and expects to be compensated similarly. ‘He knows his value,’ Meirov explained, referencing other top-tier players like Myles Garrett and T.J. Watt, who are also seeking significant extensions.

Hendrickson, who led the NFL in sacks following his return from contract disputes last offseason, has publicly expressed gratitude toward the Bengals organization. In a statement, he said, ‘It’s been an honor and privilege to represent Cincinnati over the last four years. I love this city and organization. I appreciate the privilege of now being allowed to explore my options.’

The unfolding situation places the Bengals in a delicate balancing act of securing future contracts while deciding the potential fate of an important defensive player in Hendrickson. As negotiations continue, the organization will need to consider what offers might ultimately present themselves in the days leading up to free agency.

For more updates regarding the Bengals and Hendrickson’s situation, fans can stay tuned for further developments through various sports news outlets.