Trey Hendrickson is threatening to sit out games or possibly the entire season if the Cincinnati Bengals do not meet his salary demands, creating tension during the current NFL offseason. The veteran pass rusher, fresh off leading the league in sacks, is insisting on compensation that ranks among the highest for his position, which is fueling a contract holdout standoff with the Bengals.
Trade Attempts Fail and Negotiations Stall
Earlier this offseason, Hendrickson requested a trade from the Bengals and was granted permission to seek one. However, despite those efforts, he remains on Cincinnati’s roster. Sources, including ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, indicate that trade talks have cooled down because the Bengals either did not receive a suitable offer, including a first-round pick, or chose to reject proposals received in March.
Background of Hendrickson’s Contract and Expectations
Hendrickson originally signed a four-year, $60 million deal with Cincinnati in 2021 and later added a one-year, $21 million extension through 2025, which he agreed to with the expectation that the Bengals would compensate him fairly after the 2022 season. Having achieved All-Pro honors and leading the NFL in sacks last year, Hendrickson feels justified in demanding a top-tier contract. However, the team has yet to meet his financial expectations.
Responses from Bengals Leadership and Player Reactions
The Bengals’ management has publicly downplayed Hendrickson’s stance, causing some friction. Bengals executive Katie Blackburn noted,
“I think he should be happy at certain rates that maybe he doesn’t think he’d be happy at”
, reflecting the organization’s stance on the situation. Additionally, head coach Zac Taylor warned Hendrickson of fines should he miss minicamp, which begins on June 10, intensifying the strained atmosphere.
Hendrickson’s Public Pitch and Support from Teammate Shemar Stewart
In response, Hendrickson appeared at the Bengals’ facility to speak candidly with the media, criticizing the team for making the dispute personal and highlighting the lack of contract discussions since the NFL Draft. The Bengals recently drafted another pass rusher, Shemar Stewart, who has aligned with Hendrickson’s position by refusing to practice without a signed contract. As of now, Hendrickson has not returned to practice.
Financial Demands and Implications of a Potential Holdout
Hendrickson reportedly aims to match the salary level of Maxx Crosby, currently the highest-paid pass rusher short of Myles Garrett’s exceptional contract. The Bengals, meanwhile, are reportedly only willing to offer around $28 million annually, which falls roughly 20% short of Hendrickson’s demands. While Hendrickson has earned about $68 million over his career so far, he seems determined to secure a more lucrative deal over a shorter period, possibly within two years rather than three.
Possible Consequences and Future Outlook
The Bengals face a difficult decision, weighing Hendrickson’s recent high production against concerns about his age and potential decline at 30. If Hendrickson proceeds with a holdout, it could strain his relationship with the team and impact both his playing time and earnings. The resolution of this standoff will be crucial not only for Hendrickson’s career trajectory but also for Cincinnati’s defensive strength this season. As minicamp approaches, all eyes remain on whether the Bengals and Hendrickson can reach an agreement or if the standoff will extend deeper into the year.