Bengals pass rusher Trey Hendrickson did not report for training camp on Tuesday and was officially placed on the NFL’s Reserve/Did Not Report list. The 30-year-old is seeking a new contract and hopes his absence will pressure the Bengals into agreeing to an extension soon. The situation has created tension around the team as Hendrickson begins the final year of his deal.
Significant Financial Penalties for Hendrickson’s Holdout
Hendrickson faces steep fines for missing camp, with a $50,000 penalty for each day absent. Missing any preseason or regular-season games could cost him as much as $877,777 per game. Despite being scheduled to earn $15.8 million in base salary this season, Hendrickson is pressing for improved terms, using his holdout as leverage during contract talks with the Bengals.
Reactions from Bengals Players and Coaches on the Holdout
Quarterback Joe Burrow described Hendrickson’s absence as “obviously disappointing.” Burrow emphasized the importance of having all key players present from day one to build team cohesion but acknowledged that such situations are common in the NFL.
“You’d like to have all your guys out there day one to try to build that cohesion that I was talking about earlier, but that’s not how it usually works out.”
—Joe Burrow, Bengals quarterback
Burrow also revealed ongoing communication with Hendrickson, expressing hope that the contract can be resolved quickly.
“Me and Trey are in constant contact, I think the earlier you get these things done, the better.”
—Joe Burrow, Bengals quarterback
Bengals head coach Zac Taylor downplayed the holdout’s impact on the team, stating that it is not a distraction for players already present.
No distraction for us, Taylor said. He noted the issue is more of a media focus than a concern within the locker room, as players remain focused on preparing for the season.
Other Bengals Players and NFL Stars Also Holding Out
Hendrickson is not the only Bengals player holding out; rookie Shemar Stewart, a first-round draft pick, remains unsigned and is also absent from camp. Nationally, other NFL stars such as Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin have similarly been placed on the Reserve/Did Not Report list due to holdouts.
Potential Impact and What Lies Ahead
The ongoing Trey Hendrickson Bengals holdout adds pressure on the team as training camp progresses, risking fines and lost preparation time for a key defensive player. How quickly both sides can negotiate will likely influence the Bengals’ defensive strength and team chemistry for the upcoming season. With communication still open, a resolution may come before preseason games begin, but the tense situation remains a major storyline for the franchise.