Unlike most NFL teams that are often pressured into negotiations when a player holds out, the Cincinnati Bengals operate differently. They place a strong emphasis on maintaining organizational control and setting a precedent that player absences will not sway them.
This mindset means that even a high-caliber player like defensive end Trey Hendrickson, who attempted a training camp holdout, gained little leverage. The Bengals’ refusal to budge illustrates a deep commitment to upholding authority and resisting any tactic they deem disruptive.
Financial Penalties Mount Quickly While Bengals Remain Unmoved by Star Player Holdouts
Hendrickson faced significant financial penalties for his holdout. The NFL imposes mandatory fines of $50,000 per day missed during training camp, which cannot be forgiven. Had he continued into the regular season, Hendrickson would have forfeited $877,000 per game.
The financial loss would have extended beyond game checks, as his leverage in securing a better contract would have diminished. Notably, while the Bengals had reportedly floated a $28 million annual deal months prior, Hendrickson is still under a $15.8 million base salary, making the risk of continued absence especially costly.
Trey Hendrickson (NFL)The Bengals have shown a consistent approach to such situations. Last year, they fined star receiver Ja’Marr Chase during a similar standoff, and while those fines could be waived, they demonstrated the team’s willingness to apply pressure.
Hendrickson’s return doesn’t guarantee leniency if he chooses not to practice; the Bengals may penalize him further. Even citing injury could be met with skepticism and confrontation, as the team is ready to challenge excuses they view as strategic rather than sincere.
No Way Out as Bengals Hold the Power and Hendrickson Knows It
Now that Hendrickson has reported to camp, he’s effectively boxed in. If he were to leave again and remain absent for five days, the Bengals could place him on the reserve/did not report list, potentially voiding his season and salary.
While such a move would hurt the team in the short term, it would serve as a long-term warning to other players: the organization prioritizes control over concessions. The Bengals are willing to make sacrifices today to maintain their firm negotiating posture tomorrow.
At this stage, Hendrickson has little choice but to prepare for the season and accept whatever offer the team makes before Week 1. It may not meet his desired annual salary or guarantee structure, but resisting further could cost him everything.
While some may see his return as a capitulation, it was ultimately the only viable option given the Bengals’ inflexible stance. In Cincinnati, players either comply or face the consequences, and Hendrickson understood that before it was too late.
