The Cincinnati Bengals and defensive end Trey Hendrickson remain at an impasse in contract negotiations as of August 18, 2025. Despite mutual agreement on the deal’s terms and length, the two sides continue to stall over guaranteed money, leaving the veteran pass rusher’s future with the Bengals uncertain. Meanwhile, trade discussions with the New England Patriots are reportedly underway, reflecting growing tension around the situation.
Stalemate Over Guaranteed Money Halts Hendrickson’s Contract Extension
Trey Hendrickson, who has been a key contributor on Cincinnati’s defense, acknowledged ahead of a Monday night game against the Washington Commanders that a contract extension has yet to materialize due to disagreements on guaranteed money. Though both Hendrickson and the Bengals align on the length of the extension and overall financial figures, finalizing the deal remains blocked by this critical detail. Hendrickson’s decision to travel with the team but remain inactive for the game underlines the deadlock’s severity.
In response to trade rumors, Bengals head coach Zac Taylor provided a concise denial when asked if the team was actively considering offers for Hendrickson, replying,
“I got nothing to do with that.”
Taylor’s dismissive attitude, however, seemed to hint that the Bengals are prepared to move forward without their star defender. He expressed confidence in the current defensive unit, noting progress seen during practice sessions.
Paul Dehner Jr., a senior writer, analyzed Taylor’s tone post-game and said,
“Comfortable with defense based off what he’s seen in practices. Pointed out many days they’re giving offense a hard time.”
Taylor himself reinforced this optimism by stating,
“It’s preseason. I feel really excited about where our defense is at… We’re not pushing the envelope with what we are asking them to do. I know what I see every day in practice and I’m excited about the direction.”
Such remarks reflect a coach unwilling to appear concerned over the possibility of losing Hendrickson.
Hendrickson’s Exceptional Performance Adds Pressure to Contract Talks
Despite the negotiation struggles, Hendrickson’s on-field achievements are difficult to overlook. He led the NFL with 17.5 sacks last season, replicating his output from the previous year. Over the past two seasons, his 35 sacks top the league, and he has recorded at least 13.5 sacks in four of the last five campaigns. As he enters the final year under his current contract, his value remains high, attracting attention from rivals within the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/afc/”>AFC.
Patriots Express Interest Amid Bengals’ Trade Openness
The situation escalated when NFL Network insiders Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport reported that the Bengals are open to hearing trade offers for Hendrickson, stating,
“With contract talks at an impasse, the Bengals are listening to trade offers for four-time Pro Bowl DE Trey Hendrickson, sources tell me and Ian Rapoport.”
However, Pelissero added that no immediate deal is expected, emphasizing that the sack leader is only available if the right terms are met.
The New England Patriots entered the conversation with their head coach Mike Vrabel’s team reportedly reaching out to Cincinnati for information. Midwest beat writer Zach Gatsby confirmed,
“The #Patriots have reached out to the Cincinnati Bengals to inquire about the status of All-Pro DE Trey Hendrickson.”
For a franchise undergoing transition, acquiring a player of Hendrickson’s caliber would represent a significant enhancement to their defensive front.
Bengals’ Trade Request Involves Draft Picks and Young Players
The Athletic reporter Dianna Russini further clarified the Bengals’ terms for a potential trade, revealing,
“Cincinnati’s asking price included a young defensive player and a 2026 first-round pick, according to league sources.”
The player requested in return does not necessarily need to be a pass rusher, giving some flexibility in trade negotiations. This package reflects how highly Cincinnati values Hendrickson despite the contract deadlock.
Patriots Show Willingness to Invest Draft Capital for Hendrickson
In Foxborough, Patriots executive vice president Eliot Wolf communicated the team’s readiness to part with significant draft assets for the right talent, stating on Monday that they would
“be willing to trade a second or even a first-round draft pick for the right player.”
Hendrickson’s status as a dominant edge rusher makes him a prime candidate for this investment, and the Patriots could benefit greatly by addressing weaknesses on their defensive line.
Zac Taylor’s Confidence Versus Growing Trade Rumors
While Zac Taylor exudes calm and assurance about the Bengals’ defensive prospects without Hendrickson, the developments surrounding trade discussions raise questions about the team’s long-term plans. Hendrickson’s consistent production and leadership in sacks make him an asset not easily replaced, and the willingness to explore trade options suggests Cincinnati is preparing for the possibility of parting ways.
The emerging dynamic between the Bengals and Patriots highlights a high-stakes NFL negotiation amid conflicting signals from player, coach, and front office. Bengals fans and league insiders alike will watch closely as contract talks continue to stall and trade talks intensify.
This situation underscores the precarious nature of NFL contracts where agreement on seemingly minor details like guaranteed money can stall deals, while suitors wait to capitalize on opportunities to acquire elite players. As the NFL preseason progresses, all eyes will remain on Cincinnati and New England to see if a trade materializes or an extension is finally reached.