For the second straight year, Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson has requested a trade — and this time, the team has agreed. Despite having one year remaining on his contract, Hendrickson is now free to explore options with other teams.
NFL Fans React as Bengals Allow Trey Hendrickson to Seek Trade
Hendrickson, who just had a career-best season in 2024, thanked the Bengals for his time with the franchise.
“It’s been an honor and a privilege to represent Cincinnati over the last four years. I love this city and organization. I appreciate the privilege of now being allowed to explore my options.”
The #Bengals have given Pro Bowl Edge Trey Hendrickson permission to seek a trade, per me and @TomPelissero. pic.twitter.com/mTyi4M5rjx
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 6, 2025
Meanwhile, fans on X had plenty to say about the news.
“The Bengals are choosing to keep their lethal offense intact & that’s smart.! Joey Bosa, Khalil Mack, Josh Sweat, Soon Von Miller, Jordan Hargrave & more to come to be free agents & on the trading block. Also LB’s, DT’s & CB’s will be available.!”
one fan noted.
Bengals fans reading this after expecting to extend him this offseason pic.twitter.com/vszdUBwCFd
— BetMGM 🦁 (@BetMGM) March 6, 2025
With Hendrickson seeking a trade, the Bengals may have more flexibility in keeping their star wide receivers, Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. Trading Hendrickson would free up $16 million in cap space before free agency begins.
Some fans viewed the move in the context of the team’s financial decisions regarding quarterback Joe Burrow.
“Oh no it’s the end of an entire era in Cincinnati — I’m all for it. Joe Burrow needs to take a pay cut!” one fan wrote.
“Joe Burrow will never have a defense 😭,” another added.
Others hoped the Bengals would find a way to keep Hendrickson.
“Bengals need to do everything they can to keep Trey Hendrickson 💯,” a fan commented.
“They can’t possibly trade him!” another echoed.
Hendrickson’s Value on the Market
Since joining the Bengals, Hendrickson has recorded 57 total sacks, making him a highly sought-after pass rusher. Any team interested in acquiring him would likely sign him to a lucrative contract.
He had a dominant 2024 season, leading the NFL with 17.5 sacks and earning first-team All-Pro honors. He also made his fourth consecutive Pro Bowl, finishing the year with 36 quarterback hits and 19 tackles for loss.
Hendrickson originally signed a four-year, $60 million contract with the Bengals in 2021, which was extended for an additional year in 2023. He was set to earn $15.8 million in base salary in 2025, along with a $200,000 bonus, bringing his total cap hit to $18.5 million. His salary ranks 11th among all defensive ends.
With trade interest expected to be high, it remains to be seen where Hendrickson will land — and what the Bengals will do with their freed-up cap space.