Thu Mar 06 20:10:00 UTC 2025: **Bengals Open to Trading Trey Hendrickson Amidst Contract Impasse**
CINCINNATI, OH – The Cincinnati Bengals are reportedly open to trading star defensive end Trey Hendrickson, though they prefer to keep him. The team is engaged in contract extension talks with Hendrickson, but the two sides remain far apart on a deal. Hendrickson, who is set to make $16 million in 2025, is seeking a contract in the $32-33 million per year range, aligning himself with top defensive players like Myles Garrett and Maxx Crosby.
According to reports from The 33rd Team’s Ari Meirov, the Bengals were initially unwilling to trade Hendrickson, but the significant gap in contract negotiations has changed their stance. While the team still desires to retain Hendrickson, they are now willing to listen to “crazy” offers.
The Bengals’ Director of Player Personnel, Duke Tobin, reiterated the team’s preference to keep Hendrickson, emphasizing their belief in his continued success. However, this statement comes amidst challenging contract negotiations not only with Hendrickson but also with star wide receivers Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase, both of whom are seeking lucrative extensions. The team’s financial flexibility is further strained by the recent $106.5 million extension signed by Maxx Crosby.
The Bengals are currently facing a difficult situation managing the contracts of these three key players. With free agency approaching, resolving the contracts of Chase and Higgins, who are currently on the franchise tag and set for sizeable salaries, is a priority to maximize the team’s available cap space. The Bengals’ willingness to consider a trade for Hendrickson suggests the financial pressure they are under to manage their salary cap.
First Piper 