Bengals Face Trade Pressure in Hendrickson Dispute

Cincinnati Bengals star pass rusher Trey Hendrickson is entrenched in a contract dispute, refusing to play under his current deal and publicly criticizing the team’s management and communication. The Bengals’ contract offer remains well below Hendrickson’s market value, increasing speculation about a trade before the 2025 season. ESPN analysts have identified the Detroit Lions as the leading trade destination, given their cap space and need, while the Buffalo Bills and other teams could pursue Hendrickson if the Bengals lower their asking price. The mandatory minicamp scheduled for June 10-12 is considered a key deadline for potential resolution or escalation. Hendrickson’s absence threatens the Bengals’ defensive strength and has drawn criticism from NFL insiders and players. The situation remains unresolved, with both parties holding firm amid mounting pressure.