Cincinnati Bengals edge rusher Trey Hendrickson is set to hit the open market, poised for a massive contract that could reshape NFL defenses. The 31-year-old pass-rushing force has been a cornerstone for the Bengals since signing as a free agent in 2021.
Who Is Trey Hendrickson?
Hendrickson has terrorized quarterbacks for years. He leads the Bengals with 61 sacks since joining the team. Last season, he topped the NFL with 17.5 sacks and earned runner-up honors for Defensive Player of the Year.
This year, injuries limited him to seven games and four sacks, but his proven track record remains undeniable.
Contract Standoff with Bengals
Tensions boiled over last offseason. Hendrickson requested a trade, but the Bengals refused. They reworked his deal for 2025, boosting his salary to $30 million without a long-term extension.
No progress followed. The team bet on young defenders like Myles Murphy and Shemar Stewart to fill the gap. Murphy stepped up with 4.5 sacks in eight starts. Stewart, a 2025 first-round pick, showed flashes despite injuries.
Bengals brass seems ready to move on, prioritizing cap space and youth.
Projected Massive Deal
Experts predict Hendrickson lands a three-year, $78 million contract in free agency. That’s $26 million per year, with potential guarantees exceeding $50 million. His age raises questions, but elite pass rushers like him defy odds into their mid-30s.
Top Landing Spots
The Indianapolis Colts emerge as frontrunners. Defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo coached Hendrickson in Cincinnati.
Under Anarumo, Hendrickson posted his best seasons, including 17.5 sacks in 2024. Indy needs edge help after 39 sacks this year. They have $47 million in cap space.
Other suitors include the Los Angeles Chargers, with over $100 million available. The Las Vegas Raiders could pair him with Maxx Crosby for a fearsome duo.
Why It Matters Now
Hendrickson’s departure signals a Bengals rebuild on defense. They rank near the bottom in sacks without him.
Young talents must rise, but losing a proven star hurts playoff hopes. Hendrickson wants to stay but seeks respect and security.
What’s Next?
Free agency opens in March. The Bengals could franchise tag him for $36 million. That buys time but risks bad blood.
Expect a bidding war. Hendrickson could join a contender and chase a ring. His next chapter promises big money and bigger impacts. NFL defenses, beware.
