Cincinnati Bengals director of player personnel Duke Tobin has his work cut out for him after Trey Hendrickson joined Tee Higgins in requesting a trade from the team.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on Wednesday the three-time Pro Bowler made his request because the Bengals have been unwilling to meet his request for a new long-term contract.
Per The Athletic’s Paul Dehner Jr., the Bengals “have zero intention” of trading Hendrickson because they want to compete for a Super Bowl next season.
Kelsey Conway of the Cincinnati Enquirer added that Hendrickson is also considering retirement, but he remains hopeful the Bengals will reconsider their position and sign him to an extension.
Even if we operate on the assumption that Hendrickson won’t get dealt or retire, the intrigue of Hendrickson making his request on the eve of the 2024 NFL draft at least opens up some possibilities that the Bengals should consider.
Hendrickson would presumably bring back a strong return for Cincinnati. He’s under contract for two more seasons with base salaries of $14.8 million in 2024 and $15.8 million in 2025.
Considering Hendrickson ranks third in the NFL with 53 sacks over the past four seasons, combined with his current below-market salary for a top-tier EDGE rusher, there are several teams that should be calling the Bengals to at least test their resolve.
Here are the best potential landing spots for Hendrickson if a trade were to materialize.
