The Cincinnati Bengals remain locked in ongoing contract disputes with two crucial players as of the latest developments, with no resolution imminent. All-Pro edge rusher Trey Hendrickson continues to stay away from the team amid contract negotiations, while first-round pick Shemar Stewart also left the team on the final day of mandatory minicamp due to disagreements.
Hendrickson’s Firm Stance on Contract Demands
Trey Hendrickson has firmly refused to sign a one-year extension, maintaining strong demands for a multi-year deal. According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, Hendrickson does not seek to surpass Myles Garrett’s $40 million average per year but aims for a salary slightly above the $35 million range earned by players like Maxx Crosby and Danielle Hunter. Beyond salary, Hendrickson is pushing for a longer contract term and a higher amount of guaranteed money from the Bengals.
Stewart’s Objection to Contract Void Clause
Meanwhile, Shemar Stewart is resisting a specific void clause in his contract that would eliminate remaining guarantees if he defaults within a year. This clause differs from those in the contracts of the Bengals’ last two first-round selections but aligns with the majority of first-round picks across the league, including players selected immediately before and after Stewart, as reported by Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic. Within the Bengals organization, there is at least one perspective that the language used for Amarius Mims and Myles Murphy would effectively void guarantees if a default occurs, according to Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio.
Possible Solutions to Resolve the Contract Impasses
The Bengals have options to potentially end both standoffs. For Stewart, the team could amend his contract terms to mirror those given to Mims and Murphy or offer alternative incentives such as accelerated signing bonus payments or increased training camp roster bonuses. Since first-round contracts have preset slot values with fully guaranteed deals, Cincinnati’s flexibility is limited. For Hendrickson, negotiating a deal that meets his salary and guarantee demands is required to bring him back on the roster.
Financial Breakdown of Hendrickson’s Current and Proposed Deals
Currently, Hendrickson is scheduled to earn $16 million this year, but that figure is not guaranteed, making it insufficient for his return to play. One proposal under discussion includes a two-year extension worth $71.5 million, which would exceed deals signed by Crosby and Hunter, with guaranteed compensation for 2025 and 2026 potentially reaching around $50 million.
Ongoing Negotiations Despite Uncertain Timeline
Though the Bengals have explored several possible options over recent weeks, no agreement has been finalized. Tom Pelissero conveyed that the organization is still hopeful Hendrickson and the team will come to terms on a multi-year contract, but the timing of a resolution remains uncertain.
“very much dug in on his position” —Tom Pelissero, NFL Network
“talked about a variety of options over the past several weeks.” —Tom Pelissero, NFL Network