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The Cincinnati Bengals and star pass rusher Trey Hendrickson remain one of the biggest unsolved storylines this preseason. Hendrickson has expressed a desire for a new contract for months now, but remains locked in a stalemate with the organization.
The situation appeared to reach a breaking point in late July, when Hendrickson went home to Florida the day the Bengals were set to report to training camp. Hendrickson quickly changed course, reporting to the team just over a week later.
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If you thought that was a sign that Hendrickson and the Bengals were suddenly on the verge of announcing a new mega-deal for the All-Pro, you would be incorrect. Hendrickson said Wednesday his contract situation remains "exactly the same" despite him being back with the team.
Hendrickson explained he decided to report to training camp because he didn't want to be a distraction to his teammates.
"I want to help the guys, the guys that have helped me along the way. Demario Davis, Cam Jordan, even Sam Hubbard helped me a lot when I was here. To be that, right now, I think that's what's most important. This [contract] narrative will kinda iron itself out as we continue to progress towards the season."
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That isn't the most encouraging update, though Hendrickson suggesting things will "iron" themselves out could offer hope to Bengals fans desperate for cooler heads to prevail.
Hendrickson, 30, is seeking a new deal after leading the league with 17.5 sacks last season. That performance earned him his fourth straight Pro Bowl appearance and his first selection to the All-Pro team. It also resulted in a second-place finish in the Defensive Player of the Year voting.
After joining the Bengals on a four-year, $60 million deal in 2021, Hendrickson is entering the final year of his contract this season. He's set to make $18.6 million in 2025 and will become a free agent, or be subject to the franchise tag if he's unable to agree to a new deal with the Bengals before the end of the season.
