In Cincinnati, All-Pro defensive end Trey Hendrickson made a notable appearance at the Bengals’ optional team practice on Tuesday, sparked by a text message from head coach Zac Taylor. The message prompted Hendrickson, who is entering the final year of his contract and is seeking a new agreement, to attend the practice as a spectator and discuss his situation with reporters.
Hendrickson, frustrated by the Bengals’ unwillingness to meet his contract demands or facilitate a trade, has found himself at a crossroads. Taylor informed him via text that failure to report to the upcoming mandatory minicamp would result in a fine, a move that increased Hendrickson’s frustration.
“There have been some developments between them and myself,” Hendrickson acknowledged during a 20-minute session with the media. “We’ve attempted to maintain professionalism, but when such messages are sent close to the mandatory camp, it suggests reaching an agreement soon is unlikely.” His frustration extends beyond contract numbers; it includes a lack of communication post-draft that has left him and his close circle — including his family and agent — contemplating the viability of his current situation.
The defensive star, who topped the NFL ranks with 17 1/2 sacks last season earning an All-Pro designation, feels his achievements should be recognized through a contract reflecting the salaries of other elite pass rushers.
Currently on course to earn a base salary of $15.8 million with a cap hit of $18.7 million, Hendrickson is challenging the Bengals’ firm stance, which has stalled negotiations. This stalemate led him to release a statement Monday, expressing dissatisfaction over the silence since the NFL draft in late April.
“During recent days, it has unfortunately turned personal,” he expressed, recognizing that a gap in communication often breeds misunderstanding and resentment. Hendrickson articulated that this disconnect allows him to speculate rather than focus on the positive experiences he’s had with the Bengals over the past four years.
On the side of the Bengals, executive vice president Katie Blackburn remarked back in March during league meetings that the decision ultimately depends on Hendrickson’s willingness to accept terms. “A certain degree of contentment needs to be reached from his end for things to move forward. We hold him in the highest regard and value his contributions immensely,” Blackburn commented.
Hendrickson has made it clear that continuing without a new contract beyond 2025 is not an option he’s willing to consider, leaving his future with Cincinnati uncertain. “I can’t control narratives or how my feelings are portrayed,” Hendrickson lamented. Despite the ambiguity of his future, he remains devoted to playing the sport he loves and maintains hope that a resolution is possible.
Amidst the stalemate, Hendrickson believes there is potential for the relationship to mend with a new agreement. He pointed to fellow defensive player Myles Garrett, who managed to secure a substantial extension after demanding a trade earlier in the year.
“Garrett did exemplary work both off and on the field. He triumphed over similar challenges, and I believe my situation can improve similarly with time,” Hendrickson said. Acknowledging the business disagreements they’ve wrangled with over recent years, he concluded, “It’s part of the complex business side of football, and I think we’re all feeling the strain.”