Bengals’ Trey Hendrickson Granted Trade Request—What’s Next for the Star Move Rusher?

Cincinnati Bengals defensive finish Trey Hendrickson has requested for permission to hunt commerce provides for 2 years in a row. This yr, nonetheless, the Bengals lastly obliged his request and gave the All-Pro go rusher permission to hunt a brand new group.

The 30-year-old defensive finish is at all times grateful that the Bengals group is at all times supportive of the following section of his profession. Hendrickson informed ESPN’s Adam Schefter that it is at all times been a privilege to symbolize Cincinnati for the previous 4 years.

For positive, his love for town will likely be carried out to no matter group he lands subsequent season.

Hendrickson Proves Why He’s an All-Pro Rusher

Trey Hendrickson is coming off the perfect season of his profession, main the NFL with 17.5 sacks in 2024. His dominant efficiency earned him a first-team All-Pro choice and his fourth consecutive Pro Bowl look. Alongside huge receiver Ja’Marr Chase, he turned considered one of Cincinnati’s first All-Pro picks since 2015.

Hendrickson, who has performed for the Bengals since 2021, has been one of many league’s finest go rushers each season since becoming a member of them. Based on ESPN Research information, he ranks third in strain fee and general sacks (57) for the reason that yr he started taking part in for them, behind simply AFC North Division opponents Myles Garrett (60) and T.J. Watt (58.5).

Hendrickson’s Trade Request is Timely For Bengals

According to ESPN, Hendrickson initially signed a four-year, $60 million cope with Cincinnati in 2021 and subsequently signed a one-year extension. In 2025, he’ll make $15.8 million in base pay, along with a $200,000 roster bonus, with a cap determine of $18.7 million. His yearly wage for all edge rushers locations him solely eleventh, contemplating his in depth manufacturing.

His commerce request is well timed for the Bengals, who’re additionally coping with contract talks with two of their most essential offensive stars.

Bengals’ Offseason Contract Choices

The Bengals have huge monetary selections to make this offseason.

Ja’Marr Chase: The franchise huge receiver is asking for a record-breaking contract that will make him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL historical past. Bengals de facto GM Duke Tobin has stated publicly that Cincinnati plans to make it so.

Tee Higgins: The Bengals tagged Higgins for the second consecutive season with the franchise tag however aren’t closing doorways on signing a long-term extension.

Hendrickson’s commerce request follows carefully on the heels of Las Vegas Raiders defensive finish Maxx Crosby agreeing to a three-year, $35.5 million annual extension, which is a brand new customary for non-quarterback contracts. Crosby is seventh in profession sacks since 2021, and his deal is the foremost level of comparability for Hendrickson’s new contract.

Where Might Hendrickson Go Next?

Hendrickson dropped some commerce rumor tidings throughout an look on The Pat McAfee Show throughout Super Bowl week, indicating that he’s prepared to depart if the Bengals acquire.

“If it’s something that helps the Bengals win the Super Bowl, if they get picks or anything like that, I want to help win a Super Bowl for Cincinnati,” Hendrickson stated on Feb. 5. “Whether I’m there or not.”

Now that the Bengals have formally permitted Hendrickson to hunt a commerce, a number of groups are on the lookout for an elite go rusher who could also be in play. His on-field manufacturing and relatively low wage could make him one of the vital coveted defensive gamers out there.

According to CBS Sports, the Indianapolis Colts, Green Bay Packers, Chicago Bears, Washington Commanders, and Atlanta Falcons may doubtlessly signal him.