Trey Hendrickson may be headed out of Cincinnati.
The Bengals gave the star pass rusher permission to seek a trade, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
“It’s been an honor and privilege to represent Cincinnati over the last four years,” Hendrickson, per Schefter. “I love this city and organization. I appreciate the privilege of now being allowed to explore my options.”
The move comes after the team placed the franchise tag on star wideout Tee Higgins for a second straight season, with “the intent of continuing to work toward a long-term deal.”
Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson (91) runs onto the field before the game against the Cleveland Browns at Paycor Stadium. Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
With Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase, the team’s No. 1 receiver, both seemingly on the cusp of massive new contracts, Hendrickson’s $18.7 million cap hit for 2025 could be the first domino to fall.
Hendrickson, 30, has been one of the top defensive players in the NFL in recent seasons.
Last season, Hendrickson led the league with 17.5 sacks. Since joining the Bengals before the 2021 season, Hendrickson has 57 sacks, the third-most in the NFL over the period.
He’s made the Pro Bowl in all four seasons with Cincinnati, culminating in his first All-Pro selection last season.
Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson (91) exhales as he leaves the field against the Tennessee Titans post game at Nissan Stadium. Steve Roberts-Imagn Images
Last month, Bengals star quarterback Joe Burrow pressured the organization to bring back other key players, including Hendrickson, this offseason.
“We need [Hendrickson] back,” Burrow said during an appearance on ESPN’s “First Take” in early February. “We need to give him what he’s worth and what he deserves. He’s earned that. And we need our young guys to come on. We need to draft well. We need guys to come in and produce immediately. We don’t have time to wait around.”
Earlier this week, Burrow partially got his wish when the Bengals used their franchise tag on Higgins — but seemingly at the expense of Hendrickson.
The Bengals finished 9-8 last season, missing the playoffs for the second straight season.
