Craig Sandlin breaks down the news that the Cincinnati Bengals are open to trading DE Trey Hendrickson.

On Sunday, August 17, 2025, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero reported that the Cincinnati Bengals are actively listening to trade offers for their star defensive end, Trey Hendrickson, amid a prolonged contract dispute. Hendrickson, a four-time Pro Bowler and the 2024 NFL sack leader with 17.5 sacks, is in the final year of his contract, set to earn $15.8 million in base salary. Seeking a new deal that reflects his elite status—potentially in the $32-33 million annual range, comparable to top edge rushers like T.J. Watt—Hendrickson and the Bengals have reached an impasse, primarily over guaranteed money beyond the first year of a potential extension.

The Bengals previously allowed Hendrickson to seek a trade before the 2025 NFL Draft, but no deal materialized due to the high asking price and the need for a new contract. Hendrickson, who skipped the offseason program and the first few days of training camp, ended his holdout on July 30 but has not practiced, instead mentoring younger players like first-round pick Shemar Stewart while negotiations stalled. His public stance has been clear: he will not play under his current deal, pushing for either a new contract or a trade.

This development is significant for the Bengals, a playoff-contending team reliant on Hendrickson’s pass-rushing prowess (83 pressures, 24% pass rush win rate in 2024). Trading him could weaken their defense, already a relative weak point compared to their dynamic Joe Burrow-led offense. Rapoport noted that any trade would be “expensive,” likely requiring a young player and a future draft pick, making it a challenging proposition for potential suitors. Teams like the Detroit Lions have been speculated as fits, but no deal is imminent.

Bengals owner Mike Brown expressed optimism in July about re-signing Hendrickson, but the shift to entertaining trade offers suggests a change in stance, possibly driven by the looming regular season and Hendrickson’s firm position. For Bengals fans, this news is concerning, as losing their best defender could disrupt their Super Bowl aspirations. The situation remains fluid, with time running out to resolve the standoff before the season begins.