Despite posting double-digit sacks in each of his three seasons in Cincinnati, the Pro Bowl defensive end requested a trade in April after the team declined to restructure his contract.
The Bengals added a year to Hendrickson’s deal last offseason but offered no new guarantees—something he’s clearly not happy about. “I’m playing some of the best football of my career, and I just want to be valued,” Hendrickson said, expressing his dissatisfaction during offseason workouts.
"Those comments from Katie Blackburn were definitely disappointing & communication has been poor over the last couple of months..
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) April 2, 2025
It's been a little bit frustrating & if they have anything they'd like to discuss we're definitely willing to listen" ~ Trey Hendrickson #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/C9PUdfKewj
The Bengals, however, seem content to let Hendrickson play out the final two years of his deal without any additional commitments.
While he reported for voluntary workouts and remains a leader in the locker room, those close to the situation say his mood has shifted. He’s been vocal behind the scenes, making it known that he's not interested in a lame-duck situation.
According to team sources, Hendrickson feels like he’s “earned more respect” after racking up 39.5 sacks since joining the Bengals in 2021.
"When I say that communication has been poor I mean that it's been here and there..
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) April 2, 2025
We don't have any desire to be the highest paid and we've tried to be as patient as possible"
Trey Hendrickson #PMSLive https://t.co/SMzJL6gWFD pic.twitter.com/p53eUYt7TJ
With the Bengals focusing their cap space elsewhere—including extensions for quarterback Joe Burrow and receiver Ja'Marr Chase—Hendrickson’s future is murky.
If the Bengals don’t revisit his deal soon, there’s a growing belief he could be moved before the season starts. “I love this team and this city,” Hendrickson said. “But business is business.” Whether Cincinnati chooses to acknowledge that remains to be seen.
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