Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson has publicly expressed dissatisfaction regarding the ongoing negotiations concerning his contract. Despite his grievances, he has reported to the team’s facility, participating in the offseason workout session open to the media, although he was seen in street clothes, signifying he would not engage in on-field activities.
Hendrickson stated that there have been no negotiations with the Bengals since the NFL Draft, highlighting a lack of progress. Bengals executive vice president Katie Blackburn remarked that it is up to Hendrickson to find satisfaction with his situation, suggesting he should appreciate the compensation offered, which may differ from his expectations. Hendrickson labeled Blackburn’s comments as “disappointing” and “frustrating.”
Entering the final year of his contract, Hendrickson is set to earn a base salary of $15.8 million. He made headlines for an impressive performance over the past two seasons, recording 17.5 sacks, a figure that led the league in 2024.
The Bengals are also facing a similar contract stalemate with their top two draft picks, Shemar Stewart and Demetrius Knight, both of whom did not participate in the recent rookie minicamp.
This ongoing contract dispute sheds light on the pressures and complexities surrounding player negotiations within the NFL. It’s a reminder of the importance of clear communication and mutual satisfaction in these professional relationships. Despite the challenges, there remains hope that a resolution can be reached, allowing Hendrickson to focus on contributing to the Bengals’ success on the field.