Bengals and Trey Hendrickson Negotiations Stall Over Guaranteed Money

Cincinnati, Ohio — The Cincinnati Bengals are in a standoff with star defensive end Trey Hendrickson over contract negotiations. With the start of the preseason approaching, the main issue at hand remains the amount of guaranteed money in Hendrickson’s new deal.

According to Sports Illustrated‘s Albert Breer, while both sides have found common ground on the average annual value (AAV), which is reportedly above $30 million, discussions are stalled due to disagreements over guarantees. Breer noted that Hendrickson could become one of the highest-paid players in the league if the Bengals decide to adjust their stance on guaranteed money.

Top pass rushers in the NFL have recently secured deals with guarantees extending beyond the first year. However, the Bengals generally adhere to a policy of limiting guarantees, which complicates this situation. Breer indicated that while the organization could foresee including second-year guarantees in Hendrickson’s contract, this may not meet the player’s expectations.

The gap between what the Bengals are willing to guarantee and what Hendrickson desires is reported to be between $6 million to $10 million. Hendrickson had previously engaged in a brief holdout before returning to training camp, though he has yet to participate in practices.

Hendrickson, 30, was selected by the New Orleans Saints in the third round of the 2017 draft. He signed a four-year, $60 million contract with the Bengals in 2021 and made a significant impact, including a Super Bowl appearance that year. In the 2024 season, he recorded 46 tackles, 17.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles while appearing in all 17 games.

The Bengals are reportedly aware of the importance of retaining Hendrickson, especially as they prepare for the upcoming season. The expectation is that negotiations will continue as both parties seek a resolution before the regular season begins.