According to Adam Schefter, Bengals DE Trey Hendrickson has requested a trade.
Hendrickson, who is set to make $15M this upcoming season, is looking for more long term security, which the Bengals reportedly aren’t willing to offer.
The Bengals made efforts last offseason to address his concerns, signing him to an extension. Money was added to his 2023 salary, and he was given an extra $16M in 2024. However, this still doesn’t give him the long term security he’s after.
Hendrickson, even at his current price, has been of tremendous value for the Bengals. Since joining the team, he has been one of the league’s best pass rushers, showing day in, day out that he can change a game. He is currently under contract through 2025.
This is a tough thing to hear for the Bengals, who seem to have more than enough contract problems these days. Of course, the situation with Tee Higgins also remains ongoing. And given the team’s refusal to budge with him, they are also unlikely to honour Hendrickson’s request, unless they receive what they feel is an unbelievable offer.
In other news, the Bengals have exercised the 5th year option of WR Ja’Marr Chase. This means that he will be making $21.8M in 2025.
The 5th year option comes with all 1st round picks, and a decision must be made prior to their 4th season. This was obviously a no brainer, as Chase, since being drafted in 2021, has become one of the league’s top WR’s.
Unlike with Higgins, you know the Bengals will be extending Chase at some point in time. And this one is expected to break the bank, which is contributing significantly to their tactics regarding Higgins, and probably Hendrickson as well.
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