Overview

• Trey Hendrickson publicly voiced disappointment over the Bengals' handling of his contract negotiations, citing poor communication and broken assurances about a long-term deal.
• The Bengals have allowed Hendrickson to seek a trade, but no resolution—either an extension or a trade—has been reached as the NFL draft approaches on April 24, 2025.
• Hendrickson revealed that team executives previously assured him a new contract would be addressed if he maintained his elite performance, which he did by leading the NFL in sacks for two consecutive seasons.
• Bengals EVP Katie Blackburn stated the team offered what they believe to be a fair deal but implied Hendrickson should accept terms below market value, further straining negotiations.
• Hendrickson emphasized his desire for a long-term, guaranteed contract and reiterated his preference to remain with the Bengals, though he remains open to trade possibilities if no agreement is reached.