Bengals' Hendrickson Refuses Play Without New Contract Amidst Trade Talks

Trey Hendrickson, the Cincinnati Bengals' All-Pro defensive end and reigning NFL sack leader, has publicly expressed deep frustration over contract negotiations, stating he will not play without a new deal that reflects top defensive end market rates. Despite leading the league with 17.5 sacks last season, Hendrickson criticized the Bengals for their lack of communication and insistence on a short-term contract, which he believes fails to recognize his performance and market value estimated at $31.5 million per year. The situation escalated when Bengals head coach Zac Taylor warned Hendrickson via text that he would face fines if he missed mandatory minicamp, prompting Hendrickson to attend practice only as a spectator and address the media candidly about the deteriorating relationship. The Bengals had previously granted Hendrickson permission to seek a trade, with teams like the Chicago Bears showing potential interest, but Hendrickson had expressed a preference to remain in Cincinnati if a suitable deal could be reached. The dispute has drawn attention and support from NFL veterans like J.J. Watt and Ndamukong Suh, who highlighted the common tension between teams' business approaches and players seeking fair compensation. Hendrickson emphasized that the contract talks have become personal due to the lack of progress and communication, leaving the future of his tenure with the Bengals uncertain.