Bengals, Hendrickson Contract Dispute Stalls Amid Sacks Leadership

The Cincinnati Bengals are currently embroiled in contract disputes with key defensive end Trey Hendrickson and first-round pick Shemar Stewart, creating significant offseason buzz despite the typically quiet period. Hendrickson, the NFL's sacks leader, is entering the final year of his contract and demands a long-term extension reflecting his elite performance, but negotiations have stalled due to the Bengals' reluctance to meet his contract expectations. ESPN analyst Mina Kimes has highlighted Hendrickson as possibly the most important defensive player in the NFL, emphasizing his leverage in contract talks, though the Bengals front office appears resistant or slow to act. The Bengals have resumed discussions recently, but no agreement has been reached, even as Hendrickson has expressed frustration by skipping mandatory minicamp and incurring fines. Meanwhile, rookie Shemar Stewart's contract negotiations have also been contentious, with unusual contract language and practice absences signaling deeper issues. Star quarterback Joe Burrow remains publicly measured on Hendrickson’s situation, and the team seems unlikely to add free-agent offensive linemen before training camp, focusing instead on resolving internal contract matters.