CINCINNATI – Trey Hendrickson returned to the Cincinnati Bengals on Wednesday, ending his absence that began before training camp, but he made clear there has been no advancement in negotiations concerning a new agreement. Despite being back, Hendrickson emphasized that the situation remains unchanged regarding his contract. This update on the Trey Hendrickson Bengals contract update highlights the ongoing stalemate between the player and the team.
By reporting in person rather than remaining in Florida, Hendrickson avoids the $50,000 daily fines the Bengals had imposed during his holdout, but no new contract terms have been agreed upon. He acknowledged that some undisclosed events, which became public, influenced his initial decision to leave Cincinnati, though he declined to elaborate further.
Commitment to Team and Young Players Despite Contract Standoff
Hendrickson expressed that he never intended to completely distance himself from the Bengals or avoid being part of the locker room environment and player development. He stated,
“There was never something where I wasn’t going to be here. Punishing the young players and not being a part of their development would be a selfish act. Being here for those guys is something I look forward to.”
This demonstrates his dedication as a mentor, particularly for younger teammates like rookie first-round pick Shemar Stewart, whom he spent time advising during drills.
Joe Burrow, Bengals quarterback, welcomed Hendrickson’s return, emphasizing the positive impact of his presence beyond the practice field.
“Less so at practice, more so walking around, meetings, team meeting, training, room, stuff like that,”
Burrow said with regard to Hendrickson’s influence.
“He brings an intensity that is very unique, and so I think that’s good for us.”
No Playing Agreement Under Current Contract Terms
Hendrickson restated his firm position that he will not participate on the Bengals under his existing contract, which includes a $16 million base salary as part of a one-year extension signed in July 2023.
“Not only have I mentioned it multiple times this offseason, but also ownership has as well – our plans are not having to play on the current deal,”
he said.
“That’s something we have a common goal to get to. That’s the plan moving forward. No distractions. I am excited to be here. I think it’s great seeing the brotherhood that’s in here.”
Despite the tense contract situation, Hendrickson showed a focus on avoiding distractions and maintaining professionalism. He remarked,
“I’m not going to sit here and be a distraction and do this for 20 minutes. Not interested. I’m going to go back to the way it has been for the last four years. I’m very excited about that, so get it while you can.”
Mentorship Role and Professional Preparedness
Hendrickson views his role not only as a player but also as a mentor, citing the importance of support he received earlier in his career from veterans like Cam Jordan, Demario Davis, and Sam Hubbard.
“Cam Jordan was so valuable to me when I was maturing in the NFL,”
he said.
“If I can help (Stewart) in any way, that’s my goal being here.”
He acknowledged that the original plan was to be present from the start of camp but that circumstances changed due to public developments.
He added,
“I want to help the guys. Guys have helped me along the way like Demario Davis, Cam Jordan and even Sam Hubbard helped me a lot. To be that right now, that’s what’s most important. This narrative will iron itself out as we continue to progress toward the season.”
Hendrickson expressed no desire for personal accolades, emphasizing that his priority is being the best player possible.
Though Hendrickson has not participated in practice since January, he conveyed confidence in his readiness for the season. “I’m always ready,” he said, explaining his offseason regimen and commitment to maintaining his physical condition.
“I take a lot of pride in training in the offseason, getting bigger, faster, stronger. How I train, I’m not worried about. If I’m gonna be ready, I’m not worried about it.”
On his career accomplishments and future, Hendrickson remarked,
“I’m a firm believer that hard work works. What I’ve done in the last four years, five years, eight years in the NFL is done. I can’t do anymore at this time to rush the passer on Sundays. The hay is in the barn. It’s just whether we agree or not.”
Looking Ahead: Relationship with Bengals and Contract Outcome
Trey Hendrickson’s return brings him closer to his Cincinnati teammates and reaffirms his commitment to contributing as a player and mentor, despite the unresolved contract situation that continues to cast uncertainty over his playing status this season. His stance shows a balance between personal conviction and team responsibility as the Bengals prepare for the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL campaign. The resolution of his contract dispute will likely affect both his availability on the field and the team’s defensive unit moving forward.