Trey Hendrickson's Future: Bengals Deal Revised, Eagles Trade Proposed?!
The Trey Hendrickson contract situation in Cincinnati has finally reached a resolution, at least for 2025. After months of speculation, Hendrickson and the Bengals have agreed to a revised contract. NFL.com's Ian Rapoport reports that the deal includes a significant $14 million raise for 2025, bringing his total earnings this year to $30 million. This short-term agreement provides Hendrickson with a substantial financial boost, but it appears the Bengals' preference for a one-year guarantee prevailed.
ESPN's Adam Schefter reports that Hendrickson is expected to play in Week 1, which is welcome news for the Bengals. While Hendrickson was seeking a guarantee package for better long-term security, he remains on track for free agency in 2026.
Hendrickson was already slated to receive a $15.8 million base salary in 2025 as part of a one-year extension agreed upon in 2023. He agreed to that extension to avoid being franchise-tagged in 2025. Despite the Bengals observing the Steelers offer T.J. Watt a $108 million full guarantee on a three-year deal, they stood firm on their organizational philosophy regarding guarantees with Hendrickson.
Eagles Eye Hendrickson?
Adding another layer to the Hendrickson saga, ESPN has proposed a trade scenario that would send him to the Philadelphia Eagles. The proposed trade would see the Bengals receive edge rusher Jalyx Hunt, a 2026 third-round pick, and a conditional 2027 pick in exchange for Hendrickson.
ESPN suggests that Eagles general manager Howie Roseman might be willing to make a creative deal for Hendrickson, given the team's Super Bowl aspirations and the need to bolster their defensive line after losing key players like Josh Sweat and Brandon Graham. The Eagles could potentially offer Hendrickson a contract with two years and $70 million in guarantees, along with void years and unguaranteed money to create cap flexibility.
The Eagles have just under $30 million in cap space available, making the deal financially feasible. Hendrickson's cap hits would be under $20 million in each of the next two seasons, allowing both sides to reassess his future with the team in 2027.
Will Hendrickson stay in Cincinnati, or will the Eagles swoop in with a tempting offer? Only time will tell.