The Cincinnati Bengals currently have the NFL’s reigning sack leader on their roster, but that doesn’t guarantee he’ll be playing for them this season.
While the Bengals locked in star wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins with major contract extensions earlier in the offseason, defensive end Trey Hendrickson was reportedly given permission to explore trade options.
At one point, things appeared to be heading in a positive direction with discussions around a possible contract extension. However, recent reports suggest that negotiations have deteriorated significantly—perhaps to their worst point yet.
“We’ve tried to keep things from getting personal, but eventually it does,” Hendrickson told ESPN.
He added that the team’s warning about fines if he skips mandatory camp—just weeks away—signals little progress is expected between now and then.
Hendrickson noted that talks have taken a turn for the worse over the past week, with communication breaking down between his side and the organization.
“When there’s poor communication in any relationship—business or personal—it leads to tension,” he said. “That leaves me without a clear picture and stuck with only my perspective.”
Whether the two sides can resolve the situation before the season kicks off remains to be seen.
