Trey Hendrickson sends big warning to Bengals after trade request
Oct 9, 2022; Baltimore, MD, USA; Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson (91) warms up before an NFL Week 5 game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Oct. 9, 2022, at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore. Mandatory Credit: Kareem Elgazzar-USA TODAY Sports
Standout pass rusher Trey Hendrickson has demanded a trade from the Cincinnati Bengals, and has given a big warning to the organization if they refuse to grant his request.
Hendrickson is still hoping for a long-term contract offer from the Bengals, his agent, Harold Lewis, told Kelsey Conway of the Cincinnati Enquirer. If the Bengals do not offer Hendrickson an extension, the defensive star could even consider retirement.
Breaking: I just spoke with Trey Hendrickson's agent, Harold Lewis, about Hendrickson's trade request.
Hendrickson is hopeful the Bengals reconsider and give him a long-term deal. If not, he wishes to be traded. Trey is also considered retirement. More to come @Enquirer
— Kelsey Conway (@KelseyLConway) April 24, 2024
For what it’s worth, Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic reported that the Bengals have no intention of trading Hendrickson, and view him as a vital part of the team.
I can confirm Trey Hendrickson has requested a trade, as @AdamSchefter reported.
I can also confirm the #Bengals have zero interest in dealing him and don’t intend to do so.
Just as with Tee Higgins, they are trying to win the Super Bowl this year, not deal stars.
— Paul Dehner Jr. (@pauldehnerjr) April 24, 2024
Hendrickson may be bluffing with the retirement threat, as he is only 29 and has given no real indication previously that retirement could be on the table. He has two years remaining on the 4-year, $60 million contract he signed in 2021, so he does not have a lot of other leverage if he wants a new deal.
Hendrickson collected 17.5 sacks last season, so it is fair for him to say he has outperformed his current deal. If anything, he may have underestimated himself in that negotiation, leaving him in a tougher spot now. Still, the Bengals have some unhappy players on their hands, so it may be a bit of a challenge for them to sort this out before next season.