All-Pro edge rusher Trey Hendrickson, who topped the NFL in sacks last season, has been given the green light by the Cincinnati Bengals to explore potential trade options, according to sources close to the situation. These individuals spoke on the condition of anonymity as they were not authorized to discuss team matters.
Hendrickson expressed his gratitude towards the Bengals and the city of Cincinnati in a statement. “It’s been an honor and a privilege to represent Cincinnati over the last four years,” he stated. “I love this city and organization. I appreciate the privilege of now being allowed to explore my options.”
Hendrickson has had an impressive career with 17 and a half sacks last season, maintaining this performance for the second consecutive year. Since joining the Bengals in 2021, he has recorded a total of 57 sacks, ranking him third in the league over the past four seasons. He initially joined the Bengals after spending four years with the New Orleans Saints.
Interestingly, Hendrickson had also requested a trade last year before the NFL Draft, but the Bengals did not honor that request. With star wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins also in line for major contract extensions, managing the team’s salary cap will be a significant challenge. Bengals director of player personnel Duke Tobin recently reiterated his confidence in their ability to retain key players, despite the complexity involved.
“We have a lot of really good football players, fantastic football players. And we’re fortunate to be in a position where we can fit them all in. We’ve managed our cap well,” Tobin remarked. He added that the team aims to maintain a high payroll while minimizing unused salary cap space, ensuring that players get their deserved earnings.
Following the recent reset of market values, particularly after Raiders pass rusher Maxx Crosby’s hefty three-year extension worth $106.5 million, the financial landscape for Hendrickson and Chase has changed significantly. Crosby’s deal includes $91.5 million guaranteed and makes him the highest-paid non-quarterback in the league.
In light of Hendrickson’s trade request, the Bengals were already focusing on enhancing their defensive line. Adding to the uncertainty, defensive end Sam Hubbard announced his retirement Wednesday, leaving behind a notable legacy after spending his entire seven-year career with the Bengals.
