The Cincinnati Bengals and star edge rusher Trey Hendrickson appear to be back on speaking terms.
According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, the team has re-engaged in contract talks with Hendrickson, and both sides are reportedly exploring a “unique avenue” to reach an agreement. One option on the table involves boosting his 2025 salary while still allowing the deal to expire at the end of the season. Hendrickson is currently slated to earn $15.8 million this year.
Hendrickson, 30, previously stated he wouldn’t suit up this season without a new contract. However, he may be reconsidering that stance, potentially recognizing that Cincinnati’s Super Bowl hopes heavily depend on his presence.
After leading the NFL with 17.5 sacks in 2024, Hendrickson remains the Bengals’ most dominant defensive force. Without him, the unit lacks star talent and struggled last season—finishing tied for 25th in points allowed (25.5 per game), which played a key role in the team missing the playoffs for a second straight year.
Though the Bengals replaced defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo with Al Golden this offseason, the effectiveness of that change may hinge on whether Hendrickson is on the field.
Since joining the Bengals, Hendrickson has compiled 57 sacks, earned four Pro Bowl selections, and one first-team All-Pro honor. While Cincinnati selected EDGE Shemar Stewart with the 17th overall pick in the 2025 draft, the rookie has yet to show he’s capable of filling Hendrickson’s shoes, earning a mediocre 64.4 PFF grade over just 25 preseason snaps.
Franchise quarterback Joe Burrow has publicly supported keeping Hendrickson in Cincinnati.
“You guys know how I feel about Trey,” Burrow told reporters in May. “He deserves to be paid—paid what he wants and what the market says.”
While a multiyear extension may still be on the table, even a short-term raise could be enough to keep Hendrickson in the lineup—something the Bengals may need badly heading into their Week 1 matchup against the Cleveland Browns.
