In the end, it took a different sort of deal to keep Trey Hendrickson with the Cincinnati Bengals.
Most superstars sign long-term contract extensions with their teams. But Hendrickson and the Bengals couldn't come to a compromise on such negotiations.
So instead, it's just a one-year "solution," as NFL Network's Ian Rapoport put it. ESPN's Adam Schefter clarified the parameters: Hendrickson gets a $14 million raise for this year up to $30 million and is still going to be in the last year of his deal.
That means there'll still be plenty to worry about down the road.
For now, though, the Bengals have their man.
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Hendrickson has been the most productive pass rusher in the NFL for the past two seasons. He's had 17.5 sacks in both the 2023 and 2024 campaigns.
The Bengals' weakest link is their defense. Their offense will score tons of points with Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins and Chase Brown.
Cincinnati couldn't go into this season as legitimate Super Bowl contenders without Hendrickson, though.
He had made it clear he wouldn't play for the $16 million he was due.
Then, he requested a trade.
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After initially holding out, Hendrickson showed up to the Bengals' facility and worked with his teammates but didn't practice.
Finally, he'll get to put his uniform on.
The Bengals open the season on Sept. 7, a Sunday 1 p.m. game against the Cleveland Browns.
And thankfully for Cincy fans, Hendrickson should be out there.
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