Trey Hendrickson has returned to Cincinnati Bengals training camp after a holdout, but negotiations on a contract extension remain distant. Without a new deal, Hendrickson’s departure after this season appears possible, potentially leaving a significant void on the Bengals’ pass rush.

Although the Bengals selected edge rusher Shemar Stewart in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, recent analysis suggests Cincinnati may still pursue another defensive end in 2026 to bolster their front seven.

Mock Draft Highlights Potential First-Round Selection at Defensive End

With the 2026 NFL Draft still months away, mock drafts have begun to speculate on possible team needs. Brentley Weissman of PFSN projects that the Bengals will select Auburn’s Keldric Faulk, a promising defensive end, at No. 26 overall in the first round.

Weissman acknowledges that despite the likelihood of resolving Hendrickson’s contract dispute before next year’s draft, Cincinnati might still require reinforcement at the edge rusher position.

The Bengals’ pass rush group is currently a mess with Trey Hendrickson holding out,

Weissman commented.

While this contract dispute will very likely be sorted out by the time the 2026 NFL Draft rolls around, there is a world where edge remains a big need for Cincinnati.

—Brentley Weissman, NFL Draft Analyst

Keldric Faulk Emerges as a Top EDGE Prospect for Cincinnati

Keldric Faulk, originally from Highland Home, Alabama, has impressed since committing to Auburn as a four-star recruit. Ranked tenth nationally among defensive linemen in the 2023 recruiting class, Faulk gradually increased his impact, transitioning from a promising freshman to a standout sophomore.

In his first year, Faulk recorded 35 tackles, including four for loss, and one sack, despite limited starts. His sophomore season saw a breakout performance with 45 tackles, 11 for loss, and seven sacks, demonstrating his growing influence on the field.

Faulk combines speed and power effectively, using his long arms and advanced hand techniques to evade blockers. His ability to disrupt both passing and running plays showcases attributes that NFL teams prize in edge rushers.

Auburn’s Keldric Faulk is easily the most intriguing athlete in the upcoming edge class.
6-6, 285 pounds. Only 19-years old still. All the tools to be a Top-3 pick pic.twitter.com/KJNg8rYXBM

—Mike Renner, NFL Draft Commentator

Why the Bengals May Target a Pass Rusher Again in 2026

If Cincinnati cannot finalize a deal with Hendrickson, it is logical they will seek additional help on the defensive line through the draft. Hendrickson’s impressive 17.5 sacks in 2024 represent nearly half of the team’s total defensive sacks, underscoring his value.

The other 18.5 sacks were spread across the rest of the defense, highlighting a gap that Stewart, though a first-round pick, may struggle alone to fill. This reality further supports the idea that an edge rusher like Faulk could address a critical need if Hendrickson does not return.

Implications for the Bengals’ Defensive Strategy Moving Forward

The ongoing Trey Hendrickson Bengals contract debate not only affects this season but also forces Cincinnati to prepare contingencies for their defensive line’s future. Adding a player like Faulk in 2026 would help secure pass rush depth, maintain defensive pressure, and allow the team to navigate potential offseason changes more confidently.

As negotiations progress and the draft approaches, how the Bengals resolve Hendrickson’s contract will remain a focal point with major consequences for their defensive identity and roster construction.