Report: Bengals star contemplating drastic transfer amid contract dispute

Trey Hendrickson is seeking to turn out to be the subsequent star participant to land a profitable contract extension from the Cincinnati Bengals, and it feels like he’s prepared to go to excessive lengths to perform that purpose.

The Bengals signed huge receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins to four-year contract extensions on Sunday. Chase will make roughly $40M per 12 months with $112M assured. The annual wage makes him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL historical past. Higgins’ deal is price $115M, with the primary two years absolutely assured.

Hendrickson was given permission to hunt a commerce earlier this offseason, however the Bengals have reportedly had discussions along with his representatives about an extension. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler mentioned on “NFL Dwell” Wednesday that the 2 sides usually are not near a deal, nevertheless.

Hendrickson is alleged to be in search of greater than $30M per 12 months. He needs to be traded if the Bengals usually are not prepared to provide him that a lot cash. The defensive finish additionally has not dominated out refusing to play subsequent season.

“I do know this: I’ve heard this from a number of circles. Typically you hear gamers say, nicely like, I will simply sit out this 12 months, and it is posturing. I truly suppose he would strongly think about sitting out and probably do it if they do not get a deal accomplished. As a result of $16M this 12 months is simply not fairly sufficient in comparison with the place it must be,” Fowler mentioned, by way of Dave Clark of the Cincinnati Enquirer.

Hendrickson had 35 sacks over the previous two seasons. He had 17.5 sacks every season and completed second in NFL Defensive Participant of the 12 months voting this 12 months. He’s owed $15.8M in 2025, which is the ultimate 12 months of his contract.

You’ll be able to perceive why Hendrickson needs to turn out to be one of many highest-paid go rushers within the NFL, as his manufacturing backs it up. He has made the Professional Bowl in every of his 4 seasons with Cincinnati and has 57 sacks since he joined the group.