Amidst the Cincinnati Bengals’ search for a new contract agreement with wide receiver Tee Higgins, another key member of the team has emerged seeking a trade. Edge rusher Trey Hendrickson has reportedly requested a move elsewhere due to contract disputes, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The 29-year-old, who has two years left on his current deal, has missed the Bengals’ offseason workouts in the past two years due to dissatisfaction with his compensation.
Schefter notes that the Bengals are not inclined to accommodate Hendrickson’s trade request, despite his significant contributions to the team since joining in 2021. Hendrickson has been a standout performer, earning Pro Bowl selections in each of the past three seasons and piling up 39.5 sacks during his Bengals tenure.
However, the Bengals have expressed reluctance in making a long-term investment in Hendrickson due to his contract demands. Despite his impressive performance, Cincinnati ranked just 17th in the league in sack production last season, raising questions about the team’s need for a significant financial commitment to the edge rusher.
The Bengals face a conundrum as they navigate the offseason. While Hendrickson is a valuable asset, his contract situation presents a challenge. The team may explore adding depth at the edge rusher position through the draft to mitigate any potential loss.
Regardless of the outcome, Hendrickson’s trade request adds another layer of intrigue to the Bengals’ offseason. The team’s decision-making in this matter will have a significant impact on their roster construction and their aspirations for the upcoming season.
