Bengals' Trey Hendrickson reacts to blunt comment about contract negotiations

Hendrickson also suggested the Bengals haven't kept their promises, repeatedly delaying his extension over the past three years.

"To read what I read [Tuesday] was confusing, like it's my decision," Hendrickson said. "I would've been willing to sign three years ago, two years ago and this year. It was communicated to me that we would get something done this year."

Giving Hendrickson a new deal would be smart for the Bengals. In four seasons with Cincinnati, the 30-year-old has made four Pro Bowls and earned one first-team All-Pro nod. In 2024, he led the league in sacks (17.5 in 17 games). 

Hendrickson said he doesn't want to be the highest-paid player at his position. However, after signing wide receivers Tee Higgins and Ja'Marr Chase to extensions in March, the Bengals may not have enough cap space for another massive extension.

Spotrac estimates Cincinnati has $24.49M in cap room. Hendrickson's market value is a two-year deal worth $31.5M annually.  

On March 6, Hendrickson was granted permission to seek a trade. ESPN's Jeremy Fowler has reported he may skip regular-season games if the Bengals don't trade or re-sign him (h/t the Cincinnati Enquirer's Dave Clark). 

With Hendrickson and Blackburn bickering, don't expect them to reach an agreement before offseason workouts start on April 21.