Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson has opted to train in Jacksonville, Florida, amidst ongoing contract negotiations with the team. Hendrickson, who is entering the final year of his contract, seeks an extension that reflects his market value after leading the NFL in sacks with 17.5 for two consecutive seasons. The Bengals have offered two contracts within a 24-hour period, but neither met Hendrickson’s demands for guaranteed money beyond the first year.
Hendrickson has expressed his willingness to make concessions in the contract to help facilitate a deal. Despite the ongoing negotiations, Bengals owner Mike Brown remains optimistic that an agreement will be reached, acknowledging Hendrickson’s value to the team. Hendrickson’s absence from training camp coincides with rookie Shemar Stewart, the Bengals’ first-round pick, who also remains unsigned. This situation leaves the Bengals without two key defensive players as the new season approaches.
The Bengals, who struggled defensively last season, are keen to resolve these contract issues to bolster their pass rush with Hendrickson and Stewart. Hendrickson’s performance has been a bright spot for the Bengals, earning him a fourth consecutive Pro Bowl selection. However, with other top pass rushers like T.J. Watt, Myles Garrett, and Maxx Crosby securing lucrative deals, Hendrickson’s contract demands remain a sticking point. Both sides continue to work towards a resolution as the training camp progresses.