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Bengals’ Trey Hendrickson Reacts to Controversial Trade Permission

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Scott Salomon | Last updated Mar 6, 2025 4:28 PM ET

Cincinnati Bengals All-Pro edge rusher Trey Hendrickson was given permission on Thursday to seek a trade from the team, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Schefter posted the news on social media after speaking with Hendrickson who said he has mixed emotions about leaving Cincinnati amid this controversy.

“It’s been an honor and privilege to represent Cincinnati over the last four years,” said Hendrickson, the NFL’s sack leader. “I love this city and organization. I appreciate the privilege of now being allowed to explore my options.”

Hendrickson has played four years with the Bengals. He has played in 110 games since being selected by the New Orleans Saints from Florida Atlantic University. He has 77 career sacks to go with 151 tackles and 14 forced fumbles.

Hendrickson led the NFL with 17.5 sacks. This was the second consecutive season Hendrickson averaged more than a sack a game. He had 17.5 sacks in 2023 as well.

Weeks ago, the Bengals were prepared to make multi-year offers to two of their star players in Hendrickson and wide receiver Tee Higgins. The team ended up awarding Higgins with the franchise tag on Tuesday and told Hendrickson that he may seek employment elsewhere.

It does not mean that Hendrickson is walking out the door, but Cincinnati has to be worried he might be leaving. He will be a very valuable commodity on the open market.

Edge rushers in the NFL are to be revered and the good ones are hard to find. He totaled 35 sacks over the last two years. There is probably a suitor for him out there.

Hendrickson has been elected to four Pro Bowls during his seven seasons.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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