Bengals’ Rival’s Big Move Could Affect Trey Hendrickson’s Contract Situation
A significant development in the AFC North may influence Trey Hendrickson’s contract future.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly finalizing a three-year, $123 million extension with T.J. Watt, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history, at $41 million per season. ESPN’s Adam Schefter was the first to break the news.
This deal could strengthen Hendrickson’s case for a new contract. Both Watt and Hendrickson are 30 years old, and Hendrickson has accumulated more sacks (35) than Watt (30.5) over the past two seasons.
Hendrickson is entering the final year of his contract with the Bengals and is set to earn $16 million in base salary for the 2025 season.
“I’m very disappointed with the lack of communication so far,” Hendrickson shared in May. “I’m hoping it doesn’t escalate to something that I’d have to explain to my wife and family. I truly hope it doesn’t get to that point.”
Bengals veterans are expected to report for training camp on July 22, with practices starting the following day, July 23. If a deal isn’t reached by then, Hendrickson’s absence wouldn’t come as a surprise.
He was fined over $100,000 for missing mandatory minicamp in June.
Watt is the latest edge rusher to secure a major contract extension, following Myles Garrett, Danielle Hunter, and Maxx Crosby, all of whom signed substantial deals earlier this offseason.
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