The Bengals’ All-Pro edge rusher reported to training camp on Wednesday.
It’s good news that Cincinnati Bengals All-Pro edge rusher Trey Hendrickson reported to training camp on Wednesday morning. He could be seen advising Bengals first-round draft pick and fellow edge rusher Shemar Stewart during Wednesday’s practice.
Throughout Hendrickson’s contract negotiations, he has handled himself with professionalism and resolve. That’s not changing.
But the fact that Hendrickson is here means he and the Bengals are communicating and working to get a deal done.
“Things are exactly the same (with contract talks). What I’m not going to do is be a distraction.”
Trey Hendrickson spoke at length with us just now. Here’s 2+ minutes. #Bengals @FOX19
Also added both sides have a common goal for a new deal. Just about details. pic.twitter.com/FwuGyLkPkr
— Jeremy Rauch (@FOX19Jeremy) July 30, 2025
Notice in the first 20 seconds of the clip how Hendrickson says that this has never been something where he wasn’t going to be here to help the 2025 Bengals. That tells me he’s intent on playing this season. Even though he has said he won’t play on his current deal, what he’s saying in the clip above should be a confidence boost for Bengals fans.
Hendrickson expressed his appreciation for teammates who helped him earlier in his career, including former Bengals edge rusher Sam Hubbard. This is a player who has respect for his teammates and wants to be here.
His main point is that both sides share a common goal: to finalize a deal with no distractions.
“Not only have I mentioned it multiple times this offseason, but ownership has as well; our plans are not to play on the current deal,” Hendrickson stated. “That’s something we have a common goal to get to. That’s the plan moving forward. No distractions. I am excited to be here. I think it’s great seeing the brotherhood that’s in here.”
The clock is ticking, but progress on a contract extension is in the works.