Sportsnaut
The Cincinnati Bengals have officially kicked off training camp as they prepare for a new season ahead. Though, first-team All-Pro pass-rusher Trey Hendrickson isn’t anywhere close to Cincinnati.
In fact, the NFL’s reigning sack leader posted a picture of himself enjoying time in Florida instead, showing that he’s serious about missing practice. It’s clear that Hendrickson is upset with the Bengals as he seeks a long-term extension, but what exactly is all the fuss about?
According to ESPN’s NFL expert Adam Schefter, the Bengals have only offered Hendrickson a contract with one season of guaranteed pay. That doesn’t sound much different than his current agreement, which expires at the end of the season.
“This is an issue revolving around guaranteed money; the Bengals have been willing to offer only one year of it while other top pass rushers – Maxx Crosby, Myles Garrett, TJ Watt – have gotten three,” Schefter wrote.
The Bengals appear to be ultra concerned with Hendrickson either regressing as he enters his age 30/31 season, or they’re possibly worried that he’ll suffer a serious injury that lessens the return on their investment in the long run. Either way, the Bengals are seemingly putting their foot down on this one.
For now, Hendrickson has an $18.6 million cap hit this season, but after recording 17.5 sacks in 2024, he should be getting paid a salary closer to the $40 million range, if not more.
Related: Cincinnati Bengals GM Takes Hard Stance on Shemar Stewart, Trey Hendrickson
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