For the second consecutive year, Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson has requested permission to explore trade options. This time, the Bengals have agreed to allow him to seek out a new team.
Hendrickson, who has one year left on his contract, expressed gratitude to the organization and the city of Cincinnati for his time with the team. He acknowledged the privilege of exploring other opportunities while still under contract and thanked the franchise for the support he received over the last four seasons.
Hendrickson’s Elite Performance and Contract Situation Influence Trade Request Decision
Hendrickson has established himself as one of the most dominant defensive players in the NFL over the last two seasons. He has recorded 35 sacks in that period, the most in the league, surpassing players like T.J. Watt (30.5) and Danielle Hunter (28.5).
His outstanding performance in the 2024 season, where he led the NFL with 17.5 sacks, earned him first-team All-Pro honors and his fourth consecutive Pro Bowl selection. He was also the first Bengals player, alongside wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase, to receive an All-Pro selection since 2015.
Trey Hendrickson (NFL)Hendrickson originally signed a four-year, $60 million deal with the Bengals in 2021 and later agreed to a one-year extension. In 2025, he is set to earn a base salary of $15.8 million with a $200,000 roster bonus, contributing to a total cap hit of $18.7 million.
Despite his impressive production, his annual salary ranks only 11th among all edge rushers, which may have been a factor in his trade request. Since joining Cincinnati, he has ranked third in total sacks (57) and pressure rate, trailing only Myles Garrett and T.J. Watt.
Bengals Face Contract Challenges with Multiple Star Players Seeking Lucrative New Deals
Hendrickson is not the only player on the Bengals seeking a new deal. Ja’Marr Chase is aiming to become the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history, a goal supported by the team’s front office.
Additionally, wide receiver Tee Higgins has been franchise-tagged for the second straight year as the team looks to negotiate a long-term deal. With multiple key players seeking lucrative contracts, the Bengals’ salary cap situation likely played a role in their decision to allow Hendrickson to explore trade options.
Hendrickson had hinted at the possibility of a trade during an appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show” in February, stating that he wanted to help the Bengals win a Super Bowl, whether he remained with the team or not. His request comes shortly after Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby secured a record-breaking three-year extension worth $35.5 million annually.
With Hendrickson’s high level of production and relatively modest contract compared to recent deals, several teams may be interested in acquiring his services, making him one of the most sought-after defensive players on the trade market.
