Overview

• ESPN's Laura Rutledge reported the parties agreed on years and average salary, but Hendrickson wants more guaranteed money and is prepared to sit out.
• Cincinnati has taken calls on a trade and, though no deal is close, inquiring teams were told the price includes a 2026 first-round pick plus a young defensive player, per Dianna Russini.
• Adam Schefter said the sides are "nowhere close" on guaranteed money in a potential extension.
• Dan Graziano described a deal as difficult given the Bengals' asking price, leaguewide cap constraints, and the team's reluctance to guarantee future years.
• Hendrickson led the NFL with 17.5 sacks last season for a defense that struggled, heightening the urgency with Week 1 approaching.