Cincinnati Bengals' Defensive Star Gets Paid

Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson has solidified his elite status among pass-rushers in the NFL, and now he's being compensated accordingly. On Monday, an agreement was reached that will see Hendrickson receive a staggering $14 million raise, bringing his 2025 salary to a total of $30 million, as reported by ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Hendrickson's new deal comes on the heels of an impressive campaign in which he led the league with 17.5 sacks and set personal bests in tackles for loss (19) and quarterback hits (36). The Bengals had previously extended a three-year, $95 million contract offer, but negotiations had stalled for more than a year.

In April 2024, Hendrickson’s agent, Harold Lewis, revealed that his client had requested a trade due to the absence of a long-term deal, although he was still open to remaining in Cincinnati. "Our No. 1 goal is to get a long-term commitment from them," Lewis stated. This sentiment was echoed in reports from Kelsey Conway of the Cincinnati Enquirer, who relayed that Hendrickson was considering various options, including the possibility of retirement if a new contract wasn't secured.

Following the 2023 season, Hendrickson voiced his frustrations regarding his contract, noting that his initial four-year, $60 million deal had become a bargain considering the escalating rates for top-tier pass-rushers. Comparatively, fellow defensive players like T.J. Watt of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Myles Garrett of the Cleveland Browns recently secured contracts exceeding $40 million annually.

While the Bengals have a history of being conservative with their payroll, Hendrickson's recent extension indicates a potential shift in strategy. In addition to Hendrickson's new contract, other notable Bengals players have also seen lucrative extensions, including quarterback Joe Burrow's record-setting five-year, $275 million deal and Ja'Marr Chase's $161 million contract, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL.

Despite questions about the financial impact of tying up large sums in just four players, the Bengals' front office has demonstrated an ability to effectively develop talent through the draft and free agency. As the team looks to strengthen its roster, much will rest on the shoulders of de facto general manager Duke Tobin to find cost-effective talent moving forward.