Bengals’ Defensive Woes: Should Trey Hendrickson Get Paid Now?

By Jason Bolton August 10, 2025 19:02

The Cincinnati Bengals’ defensive star Trey Hendrickson finds himself at the heart of a significant contract debate, with many asking the pressing question: Should Hendrickson get paid now to reflect his top-tier performance and critical role amid the team’s defensive struggles? The answer leans strongly toward yes, especially considering Hendrickson’s elite production, the Bengals’ defensive woes, and the ongoing tense contract negotiations as the 2025 season approaches.

Hendrickson, who led the NFL in sacks in 2024 with 17.5 matching his total from 2023 posted career highs in combined tackles (46), solo tackles (33), tackles for loss (19), and quarterback hits (36) over 17 starts for Cincinnati. His relentless edge rushing has made him an invaluable force on the Bengals’ defensive line, providing consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks and critical splash plays in pivotal moments.

Despite Hendrickson’s production, contract talks between him and the Bengals remain unresolved as training camp arrives. He is currently under contract for a $15.8 million base salary in 2025 but has publicly voiced his unwillingness to play under this existing deal, pushing instead for a long-term extension that reflects his market value and contributions. Bengals management has made several offers, including a recent one considered close to the top of the market for an edge rusher, but Hendrickson is reportedly seeking a deal with at least three years of guaranteed money paralleling elite pass rushers like Maxx Crosby, Myles Garrett, and T.J. Watt.

Bengals owner Mike Brown has acknowledged the negotiating challenges, stating, “Dealing with him is sometimes not so easy and that’s alright. He's got the right to argue his case,” but emphasized the desire to keep the star pass rusher on the team. Executive Duke Tobin also stressed Hendrickson’s importance, noting, “He has earned a raise and extension. We’ll see if we can come together on something.” The organization expects Hendrickson to report for training camp, but the holdout signals a growing frustration over financial recognition.

The timing of this contract impasse gains urgency given the Bengals’ defensive issues. Last season, despite Hendrickson’s standout performance, the defense struggled with depth and consistency, failing to consistently stop opposing offenses or generate pressure beyond Hendrickson himself. Analysts argue that Hendrickson’s elite production tends to mask broader defensive deficiencies; losing or losing focus on such a key player would exacerbate these issues considerably. The defense’s overall Sacks and pressures metrics place pressure on the Bengals front office to secure Hendrickson’s commitment for both performance and leadership reasons in 2025 and beyond.

From a strategic perspective, paying Hendrickson now or at least reaching a long-term agreement would stabilize the Bengals’ pass rush and allow them to build defensively around a proven game-changer. His ability to strip the quarterback, disrupt plays, and create turnover opportunities cannot be overstated, especially in an increasingly competitive AFC North. The Bengals and Hendrickson alike benefit from clarity and commitment before the season ramps up.

Trey Hendrickson’s dominant sack production and overall defensive impact make a compelling case for why the Bengals should prioritize paying him now. The unresolved contract situation risks not only sidelining a key defensive asset but also risking greater defensive woes. With offers nearing top market value and Hendrickson seeking security matching his elite stature, a mutually agreeable deal seems both logical and necessary for Cincinnati’s defensive aspirations in 2025.