No one can say for certain what the future holds for the NFL's reigning sack leader, Trey Hendrickson. While he is pushing for a contract extension, he remains dissatisfied with the offer from the Cincinnati Bengals. Meanwhile, reports indicate the Bengals have opened the door to trade discussions.
Contract disputes haven't kept Hendrickson at a distance from the team. According to ESPN's Ben Baby, amid the uncertainty, he has taken an active role mentoring the Bengals' younger defensive linemen, particularly Shemar Stewart, the 2025 NFL draft's 17th pick.
During practice, Hendrickson regularly offers tips and guidance to the rookie and the other young edge rushers.
Baby wrote, "Stewart said when Hendrickson is looking over his shoulder during drills, he wants to bring the same intensity as the veteran, who is always finding ways for the rookie to refine his technique."
"We're two different people, we're two different body types," Stewart said. "So, he would tell me how he thinks I should do it to make it work for me."
Here's the video of Trey Hendrickson working with Shemar Stewart today. #Bengals @FOX19 pic.twitter.com/ku83oBaebi
— Jeremy Rauch (@FOX19Jeremy) July 30, 2025
It will be exciting to watch Hendrickson and Stewart on the field together. An intimidating duo for any opposing offense. Fans are surely hoping this contract saga is resolved soon, and in the Bengals' favor.
If the Bengals pursue a trade, they are expected to demand hefty compensation. Reports indicate the team is seeking a young defensive player along with a 2026 first-round draft pick in return.