Fri May 30 15:40:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and news article based on the provided text:

**Summary:**

Trey Hendrickson, the Bengals’ star defensive end and NFL sack leader, is seeking a new contract. He has been absent from voluntary workouts due to the contract dispute, marking the third straight year he has sought action on his deal. He even requested a trade, which the Bengals allowed him to explore, but no trade materialized. The main issue is Hendrickson’s desire for long-term security and market value, particularly after recent contract extensions for other top pass rushers like Myles Garrett and Danielle Hunter raised the bar. While the Bengals have the cap space, their conservative approach and concern over Hendrickson’s age have stalled negotiations. Former NFL player J.J. Watt has suggested the situation could have been avoided had the Bengals addressed the payout earlier. The situation is further complicated by the possibility of Hendrickson missing games if a deal isn’t reached. His teammates, including Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase, are supportive of his pursuit of a new contract.

**News Article:**

**Hendrickson Contract Standoff Looms Over Bengals Season; J.J. Watt Blames Front Office Delay**

CINCINNATI, OH – As the Cincinnati Bengals prepare for the upcoming season, a contract dispute with star defensive end Trey Hendrickson threatens to disrupt their plans. Hendrickson, who led the NFL in sacks last season, is seeking a new long-term deal and has been absent from voluntary workouts.

The impasse centers around Hendrickson’s desire for a contract reflecting his value as one of the league’s top pass rushers. Recent record-breaking contracts for players like Myles Garrett and Danielle Hunter have further fueled his demands.

Former NFL player J.J. Watt weighed in on the situation, telling Pat McAfee that the Bengals’ front office could have avoided this conflict had they proactively addressed Hendrickson’s contract earlier.

While the Bengals have the cap space to accommodate a new deal, their traditionally conservative spending approach and concerns about Hendrickson’s age (30) are reportedly hindering negotiations. Hendrickson previously requested and was granted permission to explore trade options, but no deal materialized.

The standoff has raised concerns that Hendrickson might miss games if an agreement isn’t reached, a prospect that would severely impact the Bengals’ defense. Teammates, including quarterback Joe Burrow and wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase, have publicly voiced their support for Hendrickson.

The Bengals face mounting pressure to resolve the situation before mandatory minicamp begins on June 10th. The potential loss of Hendrickson, who accounted for nearly half of the team’s sacks last season, could jeopardize their chances of snapping a two-year playoff drought.

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