Commanders pushed to pounce as Trey Hendrickson goes nuclear on Bengals

Trey Hendrickson's all-out contract war with the Cincinnati Bengals has now become personal. And unsurprisingly, it didn't take long for the Washington Commanders to be linked with a blockbuster trade for the All-Pro defensive end.

Hendrickson made no secret about his displeasure with the organization's handling of his situation. He feels trust has been broken, and he's willing to not play in 2025 without a new contract. The Bengals have broken off talks, opting for radio silence on the communication front. This situation has reached a breaking point, which could lead to a move elsewhere if the right offer comes along.

Commanders urged to end Trey Hendrickson's Bengals torment

The Commanders aren't exactly flush with assets after some ultra-aggressive moves in recent months. However, Justin Melo from The Draft Network believes Washington has the financial flexibility to extend Hendrickson if a compensation package can be worked out.

The goal is to maximize their championship window while franchise quarterback Jayden Daniels remains on his affordable rookie contract. [Trey] Hendrickson would seriously upgrade their pass-rushing unit. Dorance Armstrong and Clelin Ferrell project as the starting defensive ends. Head coach Dan Quinn could have one final roster upgrade in mind. Hendrickson would completely transform Quinn's defensive line. The Commanders are scheduled to have the sixth-most cap space next offseason, so they can afford to extend Hendrickson.Justin Melo

This could be the missing piece of Washington's puzzle. They are all-in on winning a Super Bowl and maximizing quarterback Jayden Daniels' rookie contract. Adam Peters might decide that the cost is too steep, but there's no harm in trying.

Cincinnati seems pretty dug in, although they did permit Hendrickson to seek a trade earlier this offseason. Owner Mike Brown is notoriously cheap. After tying down the wide receiver duo of Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, he's drawing a line in the sand. And the Bengals' defense stands to suffer greatly as a result.

These things have a way of working themselves out. Myles Garrett was in a similar situation with the Cleveland Browns before getting a record-breaking extension. No matter what's said, money always talks the loudest.

That's what Hendrickson is hoping for. He's always declared a willingness to stay in Cincinnati, where his family is settled. But it won't be on the money he's currently on.

The Commanders and countless others around the NFL will keep an eye on developments. Peters might even check in to see what the price is and whether a compromise could be reached. Whether it amounts to anything more is debatable, but there's no doubt how much Hendrickson would help Washington go one better and into the Super Bowl next time around.

We await what comes next with bated breath…

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