UPDATE: The contract standoff between defensive end Trey Hendrickson and the Cincinnati Bengals has reached a critical impasse, with Hendrickson indicating he is prepared to sit out if necessary. During an interview with ESPN’s Laura Rutledge on Monday, Hendrickson revealed that the main sticking point in negotiations is the amount of guaranteed money offered by the Bengals.
Both parties have agreed on the length of the contract extension and average salary, but Hendrickson is adamant that his standout performance in the 2024 NFL season—where he led the league with an impressive 17.5 total sacks—justifies a higher level of guaranteed compensation.
Hendrickson ended a previous holdout late last month and participated in the preseason game against the Washington Commanders in Maryland. He emphasized his commitment to the team, stating, “I’m a very blessed man, and I trust in God’s plan here,” while pointing to the Bengals logo on his shirt. “This place means a lot to me. I’m still wearing this logo proudly,” he added.
Despite being granted permission to explore trade options, no team has yet offered a deal that meets the Bengals’ demands. According to The Athletic, Cincinnati is seeking a young defensive player and a 2026 first-round pick in exchange for Hendrickson.
As the Bengals prepare to kick off their season against the Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2024, the urgency of this contract negotiation grows. With Hendrickson set to earn $16 million this upcoming season, fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see if a resolution can be reached before the regular season begins.
The next few weeks will be crucial for both Hendrickson and the Bengals as they seek to find common ground. Stay tuned for developments as this situation unfolds.
