Trey Hendrickson, the Cincinnati Bengals’ standout pass rusher, is expected to conclude his holdout and rejoin the team’s training camp on Wednesday, according to reports from ESPN and NFL Network on Tuesday. The four-time Pro Bowler has been holding out to negotiate a significant contract extension while preparing for the upcoming NFL season.
Contract Dispute and Performance Highlights
Hendrickson, 30, currently has a base salary of $15.8 million slated for 2025 but is seeking a deal that would elevate his pay among the league’s top defensive players. Last season, he led the NFL with 17.5 sacks, bringing his total to 35 sacks over the past two years and 57 sacks in four seasons with the Bengals. Throughout his career, he has accumulated 77 sacks, 220 tackles, and 14 forced fumbles in 110 games, including 81 starts.
The negotiations have been at an impasse throughout the offseason. In May, Hendrickson conveyed to reporters that he would not play this season unless his contract was adjusted to reflect his value on the field.
Context of Defensive Player Contracts in the NFL
Hendrickson is aiming for compensation comparable to recent high-profile defensive deals. Players like Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt secured a record $41 million annual average salary (AAV), the highest for a defensive player in NFL history. Other top defensive ends such as Cleveland Browns’ Myles Garrett and Los Angeles Raiders’ Maxx Crosby have also signed lucrative contracts, reportedly receiving $40 million and $35.5 million AAV respectively.
Before joining Cincinnati, Hendrickson spent his first four NFL seasons with the New Orleans Saints, mostly serving as a backup during his initial three years. Since becoming a full-time starter with the Bengals, he has been selected to the Pro Bowl every season.
Significance of Hendrickson Ending His Holdout
Hendrickson’s decision to end the holdout and report signals a potential breakthrough in talks, allowing Cincinnati to regain one of its key defensive playmakers ahead of the regular season. His return will help solidify the Bengals’ pass rush and defensive front as they prepare for another playoff run. The final contract outcome remains to be seen, but Hendrickson’s presence on the field is expected to have an immediate impact on the team’s defense.