The Cincinnati Bengals are facing growing criticism for their stalled negotiations regarding Trey Hendrickson’s contract extension and rookie deal for Shemar Stewart. Despite a poor defensive performance during the 2024 NFL season, the franchise has not moved to secure Hendrickson, the league’s leading sack artist from last year, or their recent first-round draft pick, Stewart.
Trey Hendrickson led the NFL with 17.5 sacks last season and has proven to be one of the best defensive players available. Meanwhile, Shemar Stewart was selected by the Bengals with the 17th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, underscoring the team’s intent to strengthen their defense. However, the front office remains at a standstill on contracts for both players.
Former NFL Player Questions Bengals’ Strategy Amid Contract Standstill
On the sports show Breakfast Ball, NFL analyst and three-time Super Bowl champion Mark Schlereth criticized the Bengals’ approach, calling attention to the contract impasse as damaging to the team’s reputation. Schlereth emphasized the unusual nature of the situation, especially given Hendrickson’s key role on defense and the fact that rookie contract terms are typically predetermined.
“Of course, it’s a bad look for the Bengals,” Schlereth said. “One. Trey Hendrickson, your best defensive player is not signed. You guys are at an impasse with his contract.”
“Now, your number one overall pick, it was a 17th overall pick, but your first round draft choice, you can’t come to an agreement on a contract that is completely slotted because of what, the language you want to get over on the player. It’s just a bad look for the Bengals and how they do business.”
Schlereth retired from a 12-year NFL career in 2001 and has since become a notable NFL broadcaster and commentator.
Historical Patterns of Contract Delays Raise Concerns
The Bengals’ reluctance to quickly finalize contracts with key players follows a recent pattern of holding out on extensions. For instance, the team delayed contract agreements with wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins for multiple seasons. Even Higgins was franchise-tagged several times before finally agreeing on a longer-term deal, a scenario rarely seen with players of his caliber.
Such delays can cause frustration among players and create tension within the organization, especially when those individuals significantly contribute to team success. The Bengals’ defensive struggles in the 2024 season, where they allowed an average of 25.5 points per game—ranking 25th in the NFL—highlight the urgency of addressing these contract issues.
Potential Implications for Bengals’ Defensive Future
The ongoing Trey Hendrickson Bengals contract dispute and the stalled agreement with Shemar Stewart raise pressing questions about the team’s offseason priorities and management philosophy. Failure to secure these players could hinder attempts to rebuild a much-needed strong defensive lineup. As the offseason continues, league observers and fans alike will watch closely to see if the Bengals resolve these issues before training camp begins.