Trey Hendrickson, Bengals Reportedly Restart Contract Talks, Explore 'Unique' Solution

The Cincinnati Bengals and Trey Hendrickson have reportedly "restarted talks" regarding a potential new contract with the 2025 season looming.

NFL insider Jordan Schultz reported Monday "the two sides have been exploring a more 'unique' avenue to get something done. Giving Hendrickson more money this season while still letting his contract expire after the year—has been discussed."

Schultz also cited a source who said, "more work to do, but there's cautious optimism."

Any type of optimism is a change of tune for the situation with Hendrickson's current deal set to expire after he makes $15.8 million in base salary for the 2025 campaign.

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero reported on Aug. 17 that the Bengals were "listening to trade offers" after the two sides had reached an "impasse" in their discussions. Dianna Russini of The Athletic reported the AFC North team was asking for a young defensive player and a 2026 first-round pick in trade discussions.

Yet no trade has materialized, and the Sept. 7 opener against the Cleveland Browns is that much closer.

Cincinnati's defense was an issue last season as the team missed the playoffs despite Joe Burrow leading the league in passing yards and passing touchdowns while Ja'Marr Chase led the league in catches, receiving yards and receiving touchdowns.

If Hendrickson is not on the field and the front office is not able to trade him for another impact defensive player, the Bengals will once again be looking at an uphill battle to capitalize on another year of Burrow's prime with a defense that is an area of concern.

That may add an element of urgency to any contract talks.

This comes after Hendrickson spoke to ESPN's Laura Rutledge (h/t ESPN's Ben Baby) ahead of last Monday's preseason game against the Washington Commanders and explained he and the team largely agreed on the total average annual salary and the length of a potential contract.

Yet the guaranteed money was an issue with Baby explaining the Bengals hold a "stance on not providing secured salary after the first season."

Seeing how pass-rushers Maxx Crosby, Myles Garrett and T.J. Watt all signed extensions this offseason with three years of guaranteed money, it isn't surprising Hendrickson was looking for something similar from the Bengals.

After all, he has been a Pro Bowler in each of his four seasons with the team and just led the league in sacks last year with 17.5. He may not be quite as talented as Crosby, Garrett and Watt, but he has been in that neighborhood of production ever since he arrived in Cincinnati.

Still, he is waiting for a new contract ahead of the 2025 season. Perhaps Monday's reported progress will eventually lead to one.