The Cincinnati Bengals are in a deep hole that doesn’t seem fixable in the near future. Losing Joe Burrow and fielding a struggling defense has not boded well, to say the least. Defensive star Trey Hendrickson could be growing unhappy after an offseason filled with contract negotiations.
“The Bengals and their star defensive end have been discussing a new contract for months and appear to be at an impasse. Things have gotten so bad, Cincinnati has actually begun listening to trade offers for the four-time Pro Bowler,”SI’s Ryan Phillips wrote.
Before the season began, Hendrickson and the Bengals managed to reach a deal, allowing him to be ready for Week 1. However, it was only a one-year restructure, and he admitted he was open to further negotiations beyond this season.
“Hendrickson, who has attended meetings and been on the sidelines during training camp, is expected to return to practice Wednesday as one of the highest-paid edge rushers in the league. Reports have his new 2025 money at $30 million, and he indicated both sides are open to talking about a deal beyond this season,” Bengals writer Geoff Hobson wrote.
Now, with the Bengals underperforming, Hendrickson is once again the subject of trade rumors.
“That doesn't mean they won't consider shipping out Hendrickson, who's playing the season on a revised one-year, $29 million contract. Just like in years past, he's been the best player on Cincinnati's defense this season, leading the team with four sacks. Playoff contenders like Detroit, New England, Dallas and San Francisco (which lost Nick Bosa for the season) need pass-rush help and could swing a deal,” NFL.com’s Marc Ross reported.
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All of these teams would be great fits for Hendrickson, but the Lions and 49ers would likely be the frontrunners. Dallas would be the least likely to go all-in, while the Lions and 49ers are in urgent need of defensive line help. San Francisco has been cycling through replacements for Bosa, while Detroit needs a reliable edge rusher opposite Aidan Hutchinson.
Hendrickson would likely welcome a move to either team, so it will be interesting to see if any contenders are willing to make a serious offer.