NFL News: Trey Hendrickson gets bold message from Joe Burrow's Bengals amid contract talks

Joe Burrow will have most of last season’s roster intact when he takes the field for the 2025 NFL season with the Cincinnati Bengals, following the extensions of key weapons like Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. However, speculation has grown in recent hours regarding the contract talks of defensive end Trey Hendrickson.

The situation became difficult when Hendrickson requested a contract extension, but the Bengals responded by granting him permission to speak with other teams and seek a trade. The 30-year-old veteran was unable to secure a deal or make progress in talks with other franchises, leaving him stuck in his negotiations.

Bengals executive vice president Katie Blackburn addressed Hendrickson’s contract situation. The complexity of negotiations with Burrow’s teammate appears to be a key factor as both sides work toward an agreement.

What did the Bengals vice president say about Hendrickson?

“I think he should be happy at certain rates that maybe he doesn’t think he’d be happy at. I think some of it is on him to be happy at some point, and if he’s not, you know, that’s what holds it up sometimes. So, you know, it takes him to say yes to something, and also, we have all the respect in the world for him. He’s been a great player. We’re happy to have him. And so maybe we’ll find a way to get something to work. We’re just gonna see where it goes,” Blackburn said in an interview with the Cincinnati Enquirer.

Trey Hendrickson of the Cincinnati Bengals

Hendrickson’s performance in the 2024 NFL season

Hendrickson played a key role for quarterback Burrow’s team, leading the NFL with 17.5 sacks in the 2024 season and earning a First-Team All-Pro selection. Despite his standout performance, contract extension talks with the Bengals haven’t progressed as expected. The Cincinnati defensive end has previously expressed his frustration.

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Josh Allen’s Bills add to their roster, a former Joe Burrow’s teammate from Bengals ahead of 2025 NFL season

Will the Bengals be able to extend Hendrickson’s contract?

It’s clear that the Bengals have no intention of negotiating a contract extension, as evidenced by their decision to grant Hendrickson permission to seek a trade. A deal seems unlikely, especially considering that Cincinnati has already prioritized extending stars like Chase and Higgins.