The Cincinnati Bengals are currently facing a significant contract situation involving standout defensive end Trey Hendrickson as NFL organized team activities (OTAs) continue. While the rest of the squad has reported to training, Hendrickson remains absent, holding out for either a contract extension or a trade.
Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase, who experienced a similar contract issue in the previous offseason, shared his perspective on Hendrickson’s situation, emphasizing the edge rusher’s vital role on the team. “He’s an amazing player, man. I mean, everyone sees it. We all see what he does to this team, the energy he brought back the day he came in,” Chase remarked.
Chase recently secured a lucrative four-year, $161 million contract, which made him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. He signed his deal alongside fellow quarterback Tee Higgins, who inked a four-year, $115 million extension. Both players’ contracts ensure that the dynamic duo will remain with the Bengals through the 2029 season, a move that has been widely viewed as beneficial for the team.
Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow has also expressed his desire for the organization to provide a suitable deal for Hendrickson, highlighting the defensive end’s potential as a Defensive Player of the Year candidate.
Additionally, Hendrickson is not the only Bengals player skipping OTAs; linebacker Germaine Pratt is also absent but for different reasons. Pratt is seeking a trade after making his request in February, which came shortly after the Bengals appointed Al Golden as their new defensive coordinator. The team has yet to fulfill his trade request, further complicating the roster dynamics.
In terms of roster adjustments, the Bengals made a few strategic moves during the offseason, adding free-agent TJ Slaton and selecting draft picks Shemar Stewart, Demetrius Knight Jr., and Barrett Carter in the early rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft, with Stewart being their notable first-round choice at No. 17 overall. The transition from former defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo to Golden marks a significant change, as Golden returns to the Bengals after a successful run at Notre Dame.
Despite the uncertainties and ongoing contract disputes, there remains hope within the Bengals organization and among fan support. The potential for a motivated and cohesive team—coupled with new defensive strategies under Golden—could lead to a stronger season for Cincinnati.