Bengals' Trey Hendrickson Agrees to $30M One-Year Contract, Ends Hold-in

Strategic Insights -

The Cincinnati Bengals have secured a crucial deal with All-Pro edge rusher Trey Hendrickson, bringing an end to his hold-in. Hendrickson will receive a significant $14 million raise, increasing his salary to $30 million for the current season. The team's decision to retain Hendrickson's services comes as a testament to their commitment to building a competitive roster under the new guidance of coordinator Al Golden. As Hendrickson heads into his ninth season in the NFL, he remains a vital piece of the Bengals' defense, having accumulated 57 sacks since joining the team in 2021, ranking third most in the league over the past four seasons.

Key Takeaways:

  • Trey Hendrickson has agreed to a one-year contract worth $30 million with the Cincinnati Bengals, ending his hold-in.
  • Hendrickson will receive a $14 million raise for the current season, increasing his salary to $30 million.
  • Hendrickson is eligible to become an unrestricted free agent after the season.
  • He has led the league with 17 1/2 sacks last season, becoming the fourth player since 1982 to have two straight years with at least 17 1/2 sacks.
  • Hendrickson is a key component of the Bengals' defense, which finished 25th in total defense last season (348.3 yards allowed per game).
  • The Bengals were able to retain Hendrickson, Ja'Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins under contract for the season, demonstrating their ability to manage their cap effectively.
  • Bengals director of player personnel Duke Tobin emphasized the team's commitment to rewarding their players and managing their cap to create a high payroll with low dead money.

Statistics:

  • Hendrickson's 57 sacks since joining the Bengals in 2021 are third most in the NFL over the past four seasons.
  • The Bengals finished 25th in the league in total defense last season (348.3 yards allowed per game).
  • Hendrickson accumulated $350,000 in fines for missing the first seven days and five practices of camp.
  • He received a total of $104,768 in fines for not attending the three days of the Bengals' mandatory minicamp in June.
  • Hendrickson has led the league with 17 1/2 sacks last season, with the four players since 1982 who also achieved this feat being:

+ Ronnie Lott (1984-85)

+ Bruce Smith (1990-91)

+ Reggie White (1987-88)

+ Hendrickson (2022-23)

Sources:

  • The Associated Press (no publication date)
  • NFL Collective Bargaining Agreement with the NFLPA (no publication date)
  • Cincinnati Bengals' director of player personnel Duke Tobin (February 2025, Scouting Combine)