Bengals letting star pass rusher Trey Hendrickson seek trade - ESPN

CINCINNATI — For the second straight year, Cincinnati Bengals star defensive end Trey Hendrickson has sought permission to seek a trade.

This year, his request has been granted. Cincinnati's front office has approved Hendrickson's desire to seek out a new team for next season.

In a statement released to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Hendrickson expressed gratitude for the ability to find a new club despite having one year left on his current contract.

«It's been an honor and a privilege to represent Cincinnati over the last four years,» Hendrickson said. «I love this city and organization. I appreciate the privilege of now being allowed to explore my options.»

Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson has 35 sacks in the last two seasons, 4.5 more than the next closest player.

Hendrickson, 30, is coming off his best season to date. In 2024, he led the NFL with 17.5 sacks and was selected as a first-team All-Pro. Along with wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase, Hendrickson was the franchise's first All-Pro selection dating back to 2015. He also reached the Pro Bowl for the fourth straight year.

Two years ago, Hendrickson signed a one-year extension to the original four-year deal he signed with the Bengals in 2021 worth $60 million. In 2025, he is set to earn $15.8 million in base salary, along with a $200,000 roster bonus, and represent a cap hit of $18.7 million.

Since signing with the Bengals, Hendrickson has been one of the NFL's best pass rushers. He ranks third in pressure rate during that span, according to ESPN Research, and is third in total sacks (57), trailing fellow division rivals Myles Garrett (60) and T.J. Watt (58.5). However, his average annual salary ranks 11th among all edge rushers.

Hendrickson was one of three players