Cincinnati Bengals’ star defensive end Trey Hendrickson, the 2024 NFL sack leader, has publicly criticized the team’s latest contract offer, calling it “atrociously, atrociously low” in a conversation with former teammate and NFL analyst Manti Te’o, as reported on Good Morning Football on July 22, 2025. Hendrickson, 30, did not report to the Bengals’ training camp on July 22 with other veterans, escalating his holdout as he seeks a long-term extension with more guaranteed money. He posted an Instagram story from a Florida highway, signaling he’s left Ohio, further underscoring his frustration.
Contract Dispute Details
Hendrickson is in the final year of a one-year, $21 million extension signed in 2023, set to earn a $15.8 million base salary in 2025 with an $18.67 million cap hit. Since joining Cincinnati in 2021 on a four-year, $60 million deal, he has recorded 57 sacks, including 17.5 in each of the last two seasons, earning first-team All-Pro honors in 2024 and four straight Pro Bowl nods. His 35 sacks since 2023 lead the NFL, outpacing stars like Myles Garrett (28), Maxx Crosby (22), and T.J. Watt (30.5). Despite this, negotiations have stalled over guaranteed money and contract length. The Bengals reportedly offered $28-32 million annually with only one year of guarantees, while Hendrickson seeks a multi-year deal with three years of guaranteed money, akin to Crosby ($106.5M, $91.5M guaranteed), Garrett ($160M, $123.5M guaranteed), and Watt ($123M, $108M guaranteed).
Background and Tensions
Hendrickson’s frustration stems from repeated promises of a long-term deal. In 2023, he signed a one-year extension after outperforming his initial contract, and last offseason, he requested a trade when no long-term offer materialized. The Bengals granted him permission to seek a trade in March 2025, but their demand for more than a first-round pick deterred suitors. Hendrickson aired grievances in May, citing poor communication and a text from coach Zac Taylor threatening fines for missing mandatory minicamp. He called comments from Bengals EVP Katie Blackburn, suggesting he “should be happy” with certain rates, “disappointing” and disrespectful.
Bengals’ Position and Market Context
Bengals owner Mike Brown and director of player personnel Duke Tobin expressed optimism about a deal on July 21, but Hendrickson’s absence and comments suggest a wide gap. The team’s conservative approach, prioritizing cap space and one-year guarantees, contrasts with the escalating edge rusher market, where top players earn $34-40 million annually. Cincinnati’s recent extensions for Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins have strained their budget, potentially limiting flexibility for Hendrickson and unsigned rookie Shemar Stewart. The Bengals’ defense, reliant on Hendrickson for 48% of their 2024 sacks, faces a potential setback without him.
Sentiment and Outlook
Social media reflects fan support for Hendrickson, with posts like “Trey deserves his money” and criticism of the Bengals’ front office for perceived frugality. Analysts note the team’s low NFLPA grades for player treatment (24th overall, F-minus for family support) add context to the dispute. Hendrickson’s holdout risks fines, but his leverage as Cincinnati’s defensive cornerstone—accounting for 162 pressures over two years—pressures the Bengals to act before their August 7 preseason opener against the Eagles. A two-year extension around $30 million annually with two years guaranteed could bridge the gap, but the lack of progress suggests a resolution may hinge on Cincinnati offering more guarantees.
