On the day Cincinnati Bengals training camp was set to begin, defensive end Trey Hendrickson was noticeably absent, choosing instead to spend time in Florida amid ongoing contract disputes. The 30-year-old Pro Bowler has yet to reach a new agreement with the Bengals after missing minicamps last month, escalating tensions between the player and franchise. This Trey Hendrickson Bengals contract standoff marks a significant turning point as both sides remain entrenched over contract terms and guaranteed money.

Since joining the Bengals from the New Orleans Saints in 2021, Hendrickson has emerged as a cornerstone of Cincinnati’s defense. He has recorded back-to-back seasons with 17.5 sacks, establishing himself as one of the league’s premier pass rushers. Despite his production, Hendrickson’s current contract pays him roughly $16 million for the 2025 season—well below the market rate for elite edge rushers. His camp is seeking a deal closer to $35 million annually, comparable to contracts signed by stars like Maxx Crosby, Myles Garrett, and TJ Watt. However, the Bengals have yet to meet those financial demands, leading to Hendrickson’s decision to stay away from training camp.

Visible Standoff as Hendrickson Publicizes His Absence

Rather than quietly missing practice, Hendrickson has made his absence very public. On the morning Bengals players were expected at Kettering Health Practice Fields, Hendrickson posted images from Florida, signaling his location clearly. Bengals insider Kelsey Conway shared on social media,

“Trey Hendrickson posted that he’s in Florida this morning on training camp report date in Cincinnati a day after Bengals owner Mike Brown said he felt like the team was in a good spot with him on a new deal.” —Kelsey Conway, Bengals Insider

This deliberate choice to remain distant from the team highlights a full-blown deadlock in contract negotiations. Hendrickson’s absence removes a pivotal defensive leader from the Bengals’ preparations as the new season approaches, increasing the pressure on the franchise’s leadership to find a resolution. With both sides dug in—Hendrickson demanding guaranteed long-term security and the Bengals careful not to overcommit financially—the impasse has raised doubts about the team’s defensive stability in 2025.

Rising Stakes for the Bengals Defense and the 2025 Campaign

The Bengals are facing a precarious situation, especially considering Hendrickson’s recent performance and the competitive nature of the AFC North division. Coming off his most productive season, Hendrickson is expected to be a driving force under defensive coordinator Al Golden’s system. Missing the start of training camp not only risks fines—already estimated around $105,000 for minicamp absences—but also jeopardizes the defense’s cohesion and readiness.

Bengals Director of Player Personnel Duke Tobin stressed the importance of players reporting for camp:

“We believe everyone under contract should be here for camp.” —Duke Tobin, Bengals Director of Player Personnel

Despite this, Hendrickson’s resolve remains firm, illustrating the growing trend in the NFL where elite pass rushers are willing to sit out parts of the season to secure guaranteed contracts. This standoff reflects broader shifts in player leverage and contract negotiations across the league, with Hendrickson’s situation exemplifying the pressures teams face managing salary caps while retaining top talent.

Owner Mike Brown’s Optimism Despite the Deadlock

While Hendrickson enjoys the Florida sunshine, Bengals owner Mike Brown maintains a composed and hopeful stance regarding the negotiations. Speaking publicly, Brown acknowledged the challenging history of talks with Hendrickson but expressed confidence that a deal will eventually materialize. According to Browns’ comments reported by James Rapien,

“I think it’ll get done… We like Trey as a person, he’s a good guy but when it comes to these negotiations—and we’ve been through a few of them with him—he pushes hard. He gets emotional. We never have an easy time of it, but there’s one thing that is consistent. It always gets done. And I think this one will, but we’ll see. I’ve been proven wrong before, but I’m pretty confident that we’ll get there at the end.” —Mike Brown, Bengals Owner

Brown indicated the franchise has made multiple contract proposals involving different structures, yet the sticking point remains the amount of guaranteed money. The alterations in NFL contract norms are forcing teams to balance competitive salaries with cap sustainability. Brown dismissed the protracted negotiations as bordering on “silliness,” but still hopeful for a resolution.

Financial Standoff Impacts Team Dynamics and Future Outlook

The contract deadlock affects not just Hendrickson and Brown but disrupts the team’s offseason momentum. With training camp crucial for conditioning, installation of defensive schemes, and team chemistry, Hendrickson’s absence leaves a gap in the locker room and on the field. Additionally, it adds uncertainty to the Bengals’ Super Bowl aspirations led by quarterback Joe Burrow, as the defense is expected to carry significant weight in the competitive AFC North.

As Tom Pelissero points out, Hendrickson views the Bengals’ offer on guarantees as “atrociously, atrociously low,” signaling the difficult path ahead for negotiations. Whether Hendrickson’s decision ultimately strengthens his bargaining position or risks his standing with the Bengals remains to be seen. Meanwhile, the Bengals are wagering on financial prudence and disciplinary measures like training camp fines to bring their star edge rusher back. Until a compromise is reached, the outcome of this standoff will loom over Cincinnati’s 2025 campaign.