Latest Trey Hendrickson update should give Bengals fans reason for optimism

Hendrickson, 30, had said he wouldn't play this season without a new deal. Perhaps he's changed his mind after realizing the Bengals probably can't win a Super Bowl without him. 

Except for Hendrickson — the league's sack leader in 2024 (17.5 in 17 games) — the Bengals defense lacks star power. Cincinnati tied for 25th in the league in points allowed (25.5 per game) last season, which was one reason it missed the playoffs for a second consecutive season in 2024.

This offseason, the Bengals replaced defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo with Al Golden. However, the coaching change may not make a massive difference if Hendrickson isn't in the lineup. 

In four seasons with the Bengals, Hendrickson has amassed 57 sacks, made four Pro Bowls and earned one first-team All-Pro nod. 

The Bengals took Texas A&M EDGE Shemar Stewart (pick No. 17) in the 2025 NFL Draft, but he has yet to prove he's a potential Hendrickson replacement. He posted an average 64.4 Pro Football Focus defensive grade on 25 snaps in two preseason games. 

Bengals star quarterback Joe Burrow has also made it clear he wants Cincinnati to find a way to keep Hendrickson. 

"You guys know how I feel about Trey," the QB told the media in May. "He's a guy that deserves to get paid and get paid what he wants and what the market is." 

The Bengals should still consider offering Hendrickson a multiyear deal. Even if they just give him a raise, that's better than not having him play in a Week 1 road game against the Cleveland Browns.