Bengals Grant Trey Hendrickson Permission to Seek Trade

March 7, 2025 – Cincinnati, OH

For the second consecutive year, Cincinnati Bengals star defensive end Trey Hendrickson has sought permission to explore trade opportunities. This time, the Bengals front office has granted his request, allowing him to seek a new team.

Hendrickson, 30, expressed appreciation for the opportunity despite having one year left on his current contract. Speaking to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, he said, “It’s been an honor and a privilege to represent Cincinnati over the last four years. I love this city and organization. I appreciate the privilege of now being allowed to explore my options.”

Hendrickson is coming off his best season yet, leading the NFL with 17.5 sacks in 2024 and earning first-team All-Pro honors. He, along with wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase, became the Bengals’ first All-Pro selections since 2015. Hendrickson also earned his fourth consecutive Pro Bowl nod.

Originally signing a four-year, $60 million deal with the Bengals in 2021, Hendrickson later agreed to a one-year extension. He is set to earn $15.8 million in base salary in 2025, along with a $200,000 roster bonus, carrying a cap hit of $18.7 million. Despite ranking third in total sacks (57) since joining the Bengals—behind division rivals Myles Garrett (60) and T.J. Watt (58.5) his annual salary ranks just 11th among edge rushers.

Hendrickson was one of three key Bengals players seeking long-term contracts this offseason. Star wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase aims to become the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history, a goal confirmed by the team’s de facto general manager Duke Tobin. Meanwhile, fellow wideout Tee Higgins, who received the franchise tag for the second straight year, remains in negotiations for a long-term deal.

Hendrickson’s trade request comes just a day after Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby signed a three-year extension worth $35.5 million annually, setting the market for elite pass rushers. Crosby, who ranks seventh in sacks since 2021, further underscores the rising value of edge defenders.

During a February appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, Hendrickson hinted at the possibility of a trade, stating, “If it’s something that helps the Bengals win the Super Bowl, if they get picks or anything like that, I want to help win a Super Bowl for Cincinnati. Whether I’m there or not.”

With Hendrickson officially exploring trade options, the Bengals now face critical decisions regarding their defensive front and overall roster structure for the 2025 season.

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