Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson has asked for permission to seek trade offers for two years in a row. This year, however, the Bengals finally obliged his request and gave the All-Pro pass rusher permission to seek a new team.

The 30-year-old defensive end is always thankful that the Bengals organization is always supportive of the next phase of his career. Hendrickson told ESPN's Adam Schefter that it's always been a privilege to represent Cincinnati for the past four years.

For sure, his love for the city will be carried out to whatever team he lands next season.

Hendrickson Proves Why He's an All-Pro Rusher

Bengals' Trey Hendrickson Granted Trade Request—What's Next for the Star Bengals' Trey Hendrickson Granted Trade Request—What's Next for the Star
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Trey Hendrickson is coming off the best season of his career, leading the NFL with 17.5 sacks in 2024. His dominant performance earned him a first-team All-Pro selection and his fourth consecutive Pro Bowl appearance. Alongside wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase, he became one of Cincinnati's first All-Pro selections since 2015.

Hendrickson, who has played for the Bengals since 2021, has been one of the league's best pass rushers every season since joining them. Based on ESPN Research data, he ranks third in pressure rate and overall sacks (57) since the year he began playing for them, behind just AFC North Division opponents Myles Garrett (60) and T.J. Watt (58.5).

Hendrickson's Trade Request is Timely For Bengals

According to ESPN, Hendrickson initially signed a four-year, $60 million deal with Cincinnati in 2021 and subsequently signed a one-year extension. In 2025, he will make $15.8 million in base pay, in addition to a $200,000 roster bonus, with a cap figure of $18.7 million. His yearly salary for all edge rushers places him only 11th, considering his extensive production.

His trade request is timely for the Bengals, who are also dealing with contract talks with two of their most important offensive stars.

Bengals' Offseason Contract Choices

The Bengals have big financial choices to make this offseason.

Ja'Marr Chase: The franchise wide receiver is asking for a record-breaking contract that would make him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. Bengals de facto GM Duke Tobin has said publicly that Cincinnati plans to make it so.

Tee Higgins: The Bengals tagged Higgins for the second consecutive season with the franchise tag but aren't closing doors on signing a long-term extension.

Hendrickson's trade request follows closely on the heels of Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby agreeing to a three-year, $35.5 million annual extension, which is a new standard for non-quarterback contracts. Crosby is seventh in career sacks since 2021, and his deal is the major point of comparison for Hendrickson's new contract.

Where Might Hendrickson Go Next?

Hendrickson dropped some trade rumor tidings during an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show during Super Bowl week, indicating that he is willing to depart if the Bengals gain.

"If it's something that helps the Bengals win the Super Bowl, if they get picks or anything like that, I want to help win a Super Bowl for Cincinnati," Hendrickson said on Feb. 5. "Whether I'm there or not."

Now that the Bengals have officially permitted Hendrickson to seek a trade, several teams are looking for an elite pass rusher who may be in play. His on-field production and comparatively low salary may make him one of the most coveted defensive players available.

According to CBS Sports, the Indianapolis Colts, Green Bay Packers, Chicago Bears, Washington Commanders, and Atlanta Falcons could potentially sign him.