Cincinnati faces bombshell decision on Trey Hendrickson’s future amid free agency frenzy
As the NFL’s free agency period draws near, the Cincinnati Bengals find themselves at a critical crossroads regarding the future of defensive standout Trey Hendrickson. The talented edge rusher is currently nursing an injury that has sidelined him since Week 7, marking the most games he has missed in a single season as a Bengal. Despite this setback, Hendrickson remains a highly coveted asset, ranked as Sports Illustrated’s third-best free agent heading into 2026.
Injury Concerns and Past Performance
While injuries have cast a shadow over Hendrickson’s recent season, his prior performance speaks volumes. Before this campaign, he was known for his durability, recording an impressive 35 sacks over the 2023 and 2024 seasons. At 31 years old, Hendrickson is at a pivotal point in his career. The question remains whether teams will be willing to invest heavily in a player who is past the age of 30 but still exhibits the potential to be a dominant force when healthy.
Gilberto Manzano noted the complexities surrounding Hendrickson’s situation, stating, “It will be interesting to see whether teams will look to heavily invest in a talented edge rusher on the wrong side of 30.” His track record of 39 combined sacks in the last three seasons could entice a Super Bowl contender to offer a lucrative short-term deal, potentially exceeding $35 million annually. This mirrors the deal the Texans secured with 31-year-old Danielle Hunter, who is currently navigating his second short-term contract with the team.
Franchise Tag and Strategic Decisions
Cincinnati may opt for the franchise tag, which would secure Hendrickson’s services at the top-five average salary for defensive ends. However, such a move would significantly strain the salary cap as the Bengals prepare for another pivotal season with quarterback Joe Burrow. The emergence of Myles Murphy could influence this decision as well. If Murphy continues to rise as a talent, the Bengals might draft with an eye toward transitioning away from Hendrickson in the near future.
Despite his injury woes, Hendrickson remains a crucial asset for Cincinnati. He holds the distinction of being the team’s highest-graded player on Pro Football Focus, boasting an overall score of 82.9. In the seven games he has played this season, he has still managed to generate a strong 23 pressures, showcasing his impact on the field.
Coaching Perspective and Future Outlook
Bengals head coach Zac Taylor recently addressed Hendrickson’s status, stating, “We’ll just keep taking it week to week,” when asked if the defensive end would return this season. The uncertainty surrounding Hendrickson’s health and the impending free agency has left fans and the organization on edge.
As March approaches, the Bengals will have to weigh their options carefully. The landscape of free agency is evolving, and with Hendrickson ranked behind only Daniel Jones and George Pickens, the decisions made in the coming weeks will undoubtedly shape the team’s trajectory.
For those interested in following the developments surrounding the Bengals, there are numerous platforms available for in-depth coverage, including podcasts and video content that delve into the team’s strategies and player movements.
