The Cincinnati Bengals have a lot of work to do this offseason. While the offensive side of the ball is mostly complete, other than some extra offensive line help and running back depth, the defense is a major work in progress.
There's no bigger position of need than the defensive line, and specifically, the pass rush. With Myles Murphy seeming to turn the corner, the Bengals have some hope for the position going forward. But with Trey Hendrickson a free agent, there's some concern.
Amid his uncertain future in Cincinnati, Hendrickson received some good news from Spotrac.com for his latest contract projection. Heading into free agency, Hendrickson is projected to get a lofty $50 million, two-year deal this offseason.
Trey Hendrickson projected to get $50M contract
Spotrac's Market Value for Hendrickson has the pass rusher as a $50,898,112 projected contract over two years this offseason. That would be an average of $25,449,056 per year, a bit less than his $29 million deal from the 2025 season.
While he normally would be a very highly coveted player, his injury in 2025, which caused him to play just seven games, will likely have a big impact on his free agency.
But the four-time Pro Bowler and All-Pro lineman should still see serious suitors this offseason. Hendrickson might not draw the long-term deal he was hoping for, but $50 million over two years after his 2025 season would be a solid outcome.
More: Bengals could let Trey Hendrickson walk to sign different pass rusher on prove-it deal
He had four sacks and 16 tackles this season before missing the final 10 weeks of the year due to injury. But, if he can get healthy and produce as he did in 2023 and 2024, when he had 17.5 sacks in each season, then he will be worth the projected $25 million per-year.
His future in Cincinnati is murky, and he's more likely than not going to go elsewhere this offseason. Some teams, like the San Francisco 49ers or Chicago Bears, would likely be more than willing to spend $25 million per year on Hendrickson.
But, even if he leaves, this strong AAV deal would be good news for the Bengals. Hendrickson landing this kind of deal would net the Bengals a high compensatory pick in 2027, which is projected to be a great draft class.
This contract projection from Spotrac is good news for both Hendrickson and the Bengals. Even if the two sides don't reunite, there could be some good news for both if this projection hits.
More Bengals news:
- Bengals receive $33 million contract projection on Trey Hendrickson despite injury
- Bengals urged to make NFL Draft decision they haven't made in 15 years
- Bengals predicted by Mel Kiper Jr. To make NFL history at 10th overall with safety pick
- Wild Andy Reid, Zac Taylor stat will make Bengals fans even more frustrated
- Bengals quietly get ahead of free agency with one-year extension for veteran tight end
- Joe Burrow sounds off on fans criticizing NFL officials after several questionable calls