Once again, the Cincinnati Bengals‘ defensive effort wasn’t good enough last season. While the Bengals’ defense has been an issue for several seasons (haven’t ranked above 31st since 2022), only one team allowed more points than Cincinnati did in 2024.
Unlike last offseason when the Bengals moved on from defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, head coach Zac Taylor decided to stick with his defensive playcaller, Al Golden. While the Bengals will be retaining their defensive coordinator, they could be set to lose one of their best overall players.
Recently, ESPN’s Ben Baby suggested that the odds of the Bengals keeping pending free agent Trey Hendrickson are “very slim.” The 31-year-old has been an extremely valuable member of the Bengals, but it may be tough for Cincinnati to find common ground with its prized pass-rusher during contract negotiations.
“Once again, the Bengals will have to make a decision on Hendrickson’s contract. But unlike in previous years, this one is much clearer. The odds are very slim that Cincinnati and Hendrickson, who is arguably the best free agent signing in franchise history, will find a path forward. Hendrickson played in just seven games last season because of a core muscle injury that required season-ending surgery. He’s 31 years old and it doesn’t make a ton of financial sense to stay in Cincinnati, either on the franchise tag or on a short-term contract. His time with the Bengals has yielded four Pro Bowls, an All-Pro nod and 61 sacks during his five-year tenure.”
ESPN’s Ben Baby on Trey Hendrickson
Hendrickson will likely prioritize a chance to play for a postseason contender in free agency this offseason. Yet, after injuries limited him to just seven games, some teams may be hesitant to commit to a long-term contract with the four-time Pro Bowler.
Meanwhile, others will see Hendrickson for the impact player that he is, one who led the NFL with 17.5 sacks in 2024 and has recorded double-digit sacks in four of his past six seasons. Even with his recent durability concerns, Hendrickson’s track record should still get him a healthy payday from a potential playoff team.
