6 Non-Trey Hendrickson Free Agents the Bengals Should Re-sign

Hendrickson isn't the only pending free agent for the Bengals.

Feb. 19, 2026 at 10:47pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Cincinnati Bengals have several key free agents beyond star pass rusher Trey Hendrickson that they should look to re-sign this offseason, including defensive end Joseph Ossai, quarterback Joe Flacco, guard Dalton Risner, cornerback Chidobe Awuzie, and special teams ace Trayveon Williams.

Why it matters

The Bengals have a lot of work to do on the defensive side of the ball to bring it up to the same level as their high-powered offense. Retaining some of their top free agents beyond just Hendrickson will be crucial to maintaining continuity and building a more well-rounded team around star quarterback Joe Burrow.

The details

Ossai has shown flashes of being a dominant pass rusher but has yet to fully break out, recording just 5 sacks over the past two seasons. Flacco provided steady veteran leadership and competent quarterback play after the Bengals traded for him in 2023. Risner was a free agent addition in 2025 who solidified the offensive line. Awuzie regressed in 2025 but has shown Pro Bowl potential in the past. Williams has been a valuable special teams contributor.

  • The Bengals have several key free agents set to hit the open market in March 2026.

The players

Joseph Ossai

A promising young defensive end who has shown potential as a pass rusher but has yet to fully break out.

Joe Flacco

A veteran quarterback the Bengals traded for in 2023 who provided steady play and leadership after their starter struggled.

Dalton Risner

A free agent guard the Bengals signed in 2025 who solidified their offensive line and helped in the development of right tackle Amarius Mims.

Chidobe Awuzie

A cornerback who regressed in 2025 but has shown Pro Bowl potential earlier in his career.

Trayveon Williams

A special teams ace who has been a valuable contributor on coverage units for the Bengals.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

Retaining key free agents beyond just Trey Hendrickson will be crucial for the Bengals to continue building a well-rounded roster capable of competing for a Super Bowl, especially on the defensive side of the ball.