The Cincinnati Bengals are facing a tense situation as their premier defensive star, Trey Hendrickson, has declared he will not play in the 2025 season without a new contract. This announcement has not only stunned fans but also sparked debates about the growing rift between Hendrickson and the team. So, what are the reasons behind this resolute decision?
Current Contract Falls Short of Hendrickson’s Value
At 30 years old, Trey Hendrickson is in the final year of his contract, with a base salary of $15.8 million and a cap hit of $18.7 million for the 2025 season. However, given his on-field performance, these figures seem to undervalue one of the NFL’s top pass rushers. Hendrickson led the league with 17.5 sacks in the 2024 season, accounting for 49% of the Bengals’ total sacks—the highest share in the NFL. He also recorded 35 sacks over the past two seasons, trailing only T.J. Watt and Myles Garrett in sacks over the last five years.
The market for elite defensive ends has skyrocketed, with massive contracts signed by players like Maxx Crosby, Danielle Hunter, and Myles Garrett. Hendrickson believes his current salary does not reflect his status, especially as the Bengals have invested heavily in extending offensive stars like Ja’Marr Chase ($161 million) and Tee Higgins ($115 million). This disparity has left Hendrickson feeling undervalued, despite being an indispensable pillar of the Bengals’ defense.
A Strained Relationship with the Bengals
The relationship between Hendrickson and the Bengals has deteriorated amid contract negotiation disputes. Hendrickson revealed that the team has had little to no communication with him or his representatives since the 2025 NFL Draft in late April. This lack of engagement has made him feel disrespected, particularly as the Bengals have publicly prioritized extensions for other offensive players.
Tensions escalated when head coach Zac Taylor sent Hendrickson a text message warning of fines if he missed the mandatory minicamp in June. Hendrickson described this message as “the straw that broke the camel’s back,” turning what he initially viewed as a business matter into something “personal.” During a 25-minute press conference at the Bengals’ facility, Hendrickson repeatedly used the word “disappointed” to express his frustration.
Hendrickson also criticized the Bengals’ handling of the situation, particularly their apparent reluctance to offer him the long-term contract he seeks. While the Bengals prefer a short-term deal, Hendrickson is pushing for a long-term agreement to secure stability and avoid annual negotiations.
What’s Next for Hendrickson and the Bengals?
Despite his frustration, Hendrickson has left the door open for reconciliation, stating that “every relationship can be fixed.” However, he remains firm that he will not play in the 2025 season under his current contract, even hinting at a potential holdout if no agreement is reached.
The Bengals are in a difficult position. Having invested heavily in their offense with massive contracts for Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins, their budget for Hendrickson is constrained. Additionally, the Bengals’ selection of defensive end Shemar Stewart with the 17th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft suggests they may be preparing for a future without Hendrickson. However, Stewart is seen as a run defender who needs time to develop his pass-rushing skills, making him an unlikely immediate replacement for Hendrickson.
Another option is for the Bengals to allow Hendrickson to seek a trade, as they permitted in March. So far, no deal has materialized, though teams like the Kansas City Chiefs and Green Bay Packers are reportedly interested in the star pass rusher. Trading Hendrickson could yield a valuable draft pick or a young player, but it would leave a significant void in the Bengals’ defense.
The Cost of Standing Firm
Trey Hendrickson’s stance is not just about securing a fair salary—it’s a statement about his value to a team that has prioritized its offense. With four consecutive Pro Bowl appearances and an All-Pro nod last season, Hendrickson undeniably deserves a contract that reflects his elite status. However, the hardline positions of both sides are pushing their relationship to the brink, and Bengals fans fear the team could lose one of its most critical players.
Will the Bengals compromise to keep Hendrickson, or will they let him go to focus on other priorities? The answer will shape not only Hendrickson’s future but also the Bengals’ ambitions for the 2025 season. One thing is certain: this drama is far from over, and all eyes are on what happens next.