Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson has requested a trade from the team, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Hendrickson, who has two years remaining on his four-year, $60 million contract, is reportedly seeking more long-term financial security. The three-time Pro Bowl selection is set to earn $15 million this season and $16 million next year.
The Bengals are also dealing with a trade request from wide receiver Tee Higgins, who received a franchise tag from the team but has consistently expressed his desire to be traded for a more lucrative contract. Higgins, who had 42 catches for 656 yards and 5 touchdowns in 12 games last season, has informed the Bengals that he wants to find a new home.
The Bengals, who are eyeing a championship run in 2024, may not be willing to deal either player before they have to. Hendrickson is under contract for two more seasons, and the Bengals have Higgins’ rights for 2024. The trade requests, however, come at a critical time before the NFL Draft, and may be the players’ way of signaling to other teams that they are open to offers.
Hendrickson had a career-best 17.5 sacks last season, while Higgins has had a pair of 1,000-yard seasons for Cincinnati during his four-year career. The Bengals will need to carefully consider their options and decide whether to grant the trade requests or hold onto their valuable players for another season.
