Bengals, Hendrickson Talks Resume Amid Trade Rumors

The Cincinnati Bengals and star edge rusher Trey Hendrickson have resumed contract negotiations after a contentious standoff, with hopes of reaching a resolution before training camp. Hendrickson, who led the league with 17.5 sacks last season and earned All-Pro honors, had skipped offseason activities and minicamp, incurring over $100,000 in fines and voicing frustration over poor communication and the team's focus on extending Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. He is currently set to earn $15.8 million in the final year of his contract but seeks a long-term extension to join the NFL's top-paid pass rushers. The standoff reflects league-wide negotiations among elite edge defenders, including Myles Garrett, Micah Parsons, and T.J. Watt. Trade scenarios involving teams such as the Indianapolis Colts have surfaced amid uncertainty about Hendrickson's future. Despite the fluid situation, optimism remains that the Bengals can retain a key defensive cornerstone.