Bengals' All-Pro Edge Rusher Trey Hendrickson Draws Top Free Agent Interest

Veteran defensive end could reshape 2026 NFL offseason with potential landing spots including Patriots, Buccaneers

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Cincinnati Bengals defensive lineman Trey Hendrickson is set to hit free agency after the 2025 season, with the four-time Pro Bowler coming off an injury-shortened campaign. Despite the Bengals' efforts to re-sign him, Hendrickson and the team have been unable to reach a long-term extension, setting up a potential bidding war for the 74.5-sack edge rusher's services.

Why it matters

Hendrickson's uncertain future could have major implications for several NFL contenders, with teams like the Patriots, Buccaneers, Chargers, and Bears emerging as potential landing spots. His addition would significantly bolster the pass-rushing units of whichever team signs him, potentially reshaping the 2026 offseason landscape.

The details

In 87 games over the last six seasons, Hendrickson has recorded 74.5 sacks, including double-digit sack totals in four of those campaigns. Though he played in just seven games in 2025 due to injury, he remains one of the league's most dominant edge rushers when healthy. The Bengals have expressed a desire to retain Hendrickson, but the two sides have been unable to agree on a long-term contract extension, setting the stage for a potential free agency bidding war.

  • Hendrickson's current contract with the Bengals is set to expire in March 2026.
  • The 2026 NFL free agency period begins on March 18, 2026.

The players

Trey Hendrickson

A four-time Pro Bowl defensive end who has recorded 74.5 sacks over the last six seasons, including double-digit sack totals in four of those campaigns.

Joe Burrow

The Bengals' star quarterback, who has publicly stated that Hendrickson deserves to be paid what he wants.

Jesse Minter

The former Bengals defensive coordinator, who left to become the head coach of the Baltimore Ravens.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The Bengals will have until March 2026 to try to re-sign Hendrickson to a long-term deal before he hits the open market.

The takeaway

Hendrickson's potential departure from the Bengals could have a significant impact on the 2026 NFL offseason, as several contending teams are expected to pursue the veteran pass rusher's services. His addition would provide a major boost to whichever team is able to sign him.